Blueberries, dark chocolate, lavender and sage aromas follow through to a medium body with polished and refined tannins that are integrated but give a sense of strength and muscular tone. Elegance with structure. Closed now, it needs time to soften. Exceptional for the vintage. Better after 2028.
Vinous (95)
The 2021 La Mondotte is a dense, potent beauty, with depths of black cherry, plum, gravel, scorched earth, leather, lavender and incense. In 2021, Mondotte is quite savory and brooding, a style with freshness and less opulence than most years. It's also a wine that needs time. I imagine the 2021 will always be a pretty dark Saint-Émilion.
Jeb Dunnuck (93)
Based on 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc that was brought up in 50% new barrels, the 2021 La Mondotte is another floral, perfumed, impressive wine. Red and black raspberries, spring flowers, rose petals, and chalky minerality all define the bouquet, and it's medium-bodied, with fine yet present tannins, terrific balance, and outstanding length. I’d certainly love a glass today, but it will ideally be given 3-5 years of bottle age and will put a smile on your face any time over the following 15+ years.
