2018 Belair-Monange
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Second bottle poured was very similar to the first, possibly less fresh! Bright, dense crimson. Subtle nose. Rich and shaded. Complex and subtle. Long and quite alcoholic. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Now standing up alongside the most sought-after names of St Emilion, Belair-Monange is on the limestone plateau, and has been the recipient of serious investment over recent years. Still extremely young, gorgeously ripped muscular frame, here the fruit is multi layered and multi faceted, so much power, autumnal blackberry and blueberry, soft mocha and coffee, clear limestone edge. Great stuff.
An incredible expression of Merlot grown on limestone soils, the 2018 Château Belair-Monange (90/10 Merlot and Cabernet Franc) sports a dense purple hue as well as powerful notes of blackcurrants, kirsch liqueur, flowery incense, chalky minerality, and white truffle. Rich, full-bodied, and beautifully concentrated, it's a serious 2018 offering integrated oak, ripe yet building tannins, and one hell of a great finish. The finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted, it's a wine to seek out and hide in the cellar for a good 5-7 years. It's going to evolve for 30-40 years.
About the producer
Château Bélair-Monange sits at the highest point of Saint-Émilion neighbouring Château Ausone. The steep slope vineyards offers some of the most beautiful vistas overlooking the historic town of Saint-Émilion.