Mondot by Troplong Mondot Grand Cru St Emilion

Aymeric de Gironde and his consultant oenologist, Thomas Duclos have ripped up the rulebook at Troplong Mondot. Gone are the late harvested, over-extracted monsters of the Valette era. Now it's all about early picking, freshness and poise. 2017 was definitely a step in the right direction. 2018 is a progression, but were not convinced it’s the finished article. Even with early harvesting and gentle vinifications, this weighs in at 14.5% vol. As Aymeric says, this Troplong terroir gives enormous power - the trick is to dial it down and make something with finesse and charm. Produced from 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc, with healthy yields of 49hl/ha, the 2018 offers notes of plums, red berries and flowers. This is fresher and more detailed with plenty of kirsch fruit, cherry stones and spice. The finish is harmonious with a nice mouth-watering salinity.