Château Troplong Mondot Saint-Emilion 2019 - 1er Grand Cru Classé B

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Crowning the Côte Pavie, this 27-hectare vineyard has suffered less from erosion than any other Saint-Émilion cru. The uniqueness of this contiguous terroir stems from its distinctive location, as well as its dense, heavy clay soils—originating from the Agenais region—which are interspersed with stones and pebbles. Its former owner, Catherine Valette-Pariente, who passed away in 2014, had restored Troplong Mondot to its former glory; the estate was acquired in 2017 by the reinsurer Scor. The property was then entrusted to Aymeric de Gironde, who had previously managed Cos d’Estournel, one of the Médoc’s most prominent classified growths. To help the wine gain nuance and freshness, this native of Charente modified the winemaking process upon his arrival: a gentler method based on the infusion of pomace and raw materials, along with a reduction in the use of new barrels, were the first adjustments made. To better showcase the vineyards, a new winery is under construction: with this new facility, we will be able to be more precise in all technical processes. It will also allow us to better highlight the latest land acquisitions, whether it be Clos Labarde or Bellisle-Mondotte, neighboring estates that will, for now, be included in the second wine. In 2020, as part of this new concept, the restaurant is set to reopen with the same Michelin-starred chef, David Charrier. The 2017 and 2018 vintages mark the arrival of a fresher, more accessible style.

Decanter

About the wine:

The first vintage produced without malolactic fermentation in barrels, it offers elegant, fresh fruit in a linear style with very fine tannins and a supple, appealing texture. 2027–2049

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

Is there any Bordeaux château that has undergone a more radical stylistic revolution in such a short time than Troplong Mondot? Since Aymeric de Gironde took over the estate in late 2017, the ultra-powerful “shock and awe” style of the 2000s is a thing of the past, and a new refinement has emerged. Of course, the deep clay soils that define the heart of the vineyard surrounding the château itself are not likely to produce light or ephemeral wines, but Aymeric de Gironde has astutely understood that (to draw an analogy), when driving downhill, one can ease off the accelerator. Troplong Mondot 2019 is a striking confirmation of this new direction. It opens with complex aromas of wild berries, violets, coniferous undergrowth, licorice, raw cocoa, and subtle spices. This is followed by a full-bodied, velvety, and layered palate, fluid and fragrant, whose enveloping core of succulent fruit is framed by rich, powdery tannins and lively acidity. Harmonious and penetrating, I never thought I would one day taste such a Troplong Mondot wine. 2027–2060

About the estate:

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Following the passing in 2014 of its owner, Christine Valette-Pariente, Troplong-Mondot—which sits atop the most commanding vantage point in Saint-Emilion—seems to be facing an uncertain future. "Queen Christine," along with her husband Xavier, embodied the rebirth of this estate, which was confirmed in 2012 as a Premier Grand Cru B. A well-deserved distinction, first and foremost due to the terroir, but also to the work carried out by Christine and Xavier Pariente over more than twenty years. Every vintage produced since the late 1980s (1989 and 1990 in particular) has pushed the boundaries to demonstrate the excellence of this estate situated on the Mondot hill. A chapter has closed, one that has left its mark on the contemporary history of Saint-Emilion. It is worth noting that the château features an excellent restaurant in an intimate and refined setting, as well as magnificent guest rooms (Les Belles Perdrix).

Wine Enthusiast

About the wine:

The superb Merlot blend has increased the alcohol content while lending the wine a touch of velvety smoothness and power. This estate is now at the peak of its form, producing a generously ripe wine with aromas of black plum. The acidity adds a lively note while enhancing the wine’s intensity. Best enjoyed starting in 2026.

Terre de Vins

About the wine:

Yet another milestone achieved by the Troplong Mondot team, which has been spearheading a true revolution over the past three years. The nose reveals depth, brilliance, and beautiful clarity. Superb on the palate, with an extremely velvety texture that is both creamy and lively. Underneath it all, one senses the natural power of the terroir, superbly restrained: an iron fist in a velvet glove, all finesse, precision, and subtlety. The overall impression is juicy, aromatic, and electrifying. The finish is both lively and mineral, very invigorating. This wine has many years ahead of it.

Yves Beck

About the wine:

2019 is increasingly shaping up to be a crowning achievement, a rebirth, and the clear turning point that began in 2017. It embodies a perfect balance between freshness and maturity, between chalky and fruity nuances, and between charm and precision. On the palate, the wine does not stand out for its opulence, but for its strength, for its ability to balance power and precision with savory depth and sensuality. A brilliant and highly accomplished wine. Now – 2049

Anthocyanes - Yohan Castaing

About the wine:

A superb nose of violets, black fruits, blackcurrant, and raspberry, with remarkable vibrancy and overall purity. What brilliance and freshness on the nose! A juicy, full-bodied texture—dense yet smooth, with a crystalline mouthfeel, great purity, precision, and freshness. Perfectly integrated, silky tannins—"laser-like," as the English say—with superb, lingering length, and above all, an ethereal, pure, and delicate finish. A truly great Troplong Mondot, just as good as the formidable 2018 and perhaps even better in the long run. One of the wines that best reflects its terroir. Bravo!