Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
James Suckling
Lots of fruit here with plum and blueberry character. Full and round with velvety tannins and a clean finish. Better in 2016.
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
One of Denis Durantou's first vintages at this estate, which was extensively replanted with vine material from Église-Clinet in Pomerol, the 2010 Montlandrie is showing nicely, exhibiting aromas of rich berry fruit and nicely integrated creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, broad and fleshy, with ripe tannins and lively acids, it displayed more texture five or six years ago, so now might be time to drink up, given its predominantly young-vine origins.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
Though the region is larger than many of its Right Bank neighbors, it is one that consistently produces high quality, well-valued red wines. In fact, Cotes de Castillon can almost be considered a geographical eastern extension of St. Emilion, producing similarly-fashioned reds based on Merlot.
Vineyards in the region’s clay, limestone and sandstone soils produce sturdy red wines. On alluvial terraces, in vineyards closer to the Dordogne River, wines tend to be more supple and fruity. In either case, a great Cotes de Castillon red will be bursting with raspberry, plum and blueberry, have an enticing bouquet of dried flowers and a finish that is plush and opulent.