2021, Dame de Montrose, SAINT-ESTÈPHE

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot.

The 2021 La Dame de Montrose offers lovely immediacy in a plump, juicy style that will offer plenty of near and medium-term appeal. Technical Director Vincent Decup chose gentler extractions, which comes through in the wine's forward, supple personality. Press wines were blended back later to add structure. Absolutely delicious. 90-92 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.

The 2021 La Dame de Montrose, which represents 40% of the total production this year, has a perfumed bouquet with blackberry, raspberry coulis and light graphite scents. It needs a little more encouragement than previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with a fresh, saline entry. Modest depth, quite open and citrus-fresh, this conveys a sense of joie-de-vivre even at this prenatal stage. Good "bite" on the finish. This should drink well for a decade, possibly more. 89-91 Neal Martin.

One of the truly successful 2nd wines in the vintage, this is inky in colour and even visually you can see it has a gorgeous texture. Clear graphite, pencil lead and blueberry notes set the tone on the palate. Cool vintage character, this is extremely elegant. 90 Jane Anson.