Mondot Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2019 - Second vin

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Crowning the Côte Pavie, this 27-hectare vineyard has suffered less erosion than all the other Saint-Emilion crus. The uniqueness of this single-block terroir lies in its particular location, as well as its powerful, very dense clay soils, originating from the Agenais region and dotted with stones and pebbles. Its former owner, Catherine Valette-Pariente, who passed away in 2014, had restored Troplong Mondot to its former glory. It was bought in 2017 by the reinsurer Scor. The property was then entrusted to Aymeric de Gironde, who ran Cos d'Estournel, one of the most prominent classified growths in the Médoc. To give the wine more nuance and freshness, Aymeric, who is originally from Charente, changed the winemaking process as soon as he arrived: a gentler method based on the infusion of marc and raw materials, and a reduction in the use of new barrels were the first adjustments made. To better showcase the vineyard plots, a new winery is under construction: this new facility will allow for greater precision in all technical operations. It will also enable the latest land acquisitions to be better utilized, whether Clos Labarde or Bellisle-Mondotte, neighboring vineyards that will initially be used for 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 wine:

Such an impression of limestone terroir on the nose and palate here, with hints of wet stone and graphite edged with fragrant red cherries. Superbly smooth, with a supple yet soft texture. The well-integrated tannins are enhanced by the utterly succulent, juicy and vibrant mid-palate, layered with strawberries, red cherries and blueberries. Playful, but also well-controlled and well-presented. Long and powerful finish. A lively, elegant and delicious wine. 2024-2036

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the estate:

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

About the estate:

Following the death of its owner, Christine Valette-Pariente, in 2014, Troplong-Mondot, which occupies the most dominant position in Saint-Emilion, seems to be questioning its future. "Queen Christine" and her husband Xavier embodied the renaissance of this estate, which was confirmed in 2012 with its classification as a Premier Grand Cru Classé B. This was a well-deserved reward, not only for the terroir, but also for the work carried out by Christine and Xavier Pariente over more than twenty years. All the vintages produced since the late 1980s (1989 and 1990 in particular) have pushed the boundaries to demonstrate the excellence of this estate located on the Mondot hill. A page has been turned, one that will have marked the contemporary history of Saint-Emilion. It should be noted that the château offers an excellent restaurant in a personal and refined setting and magnificent guest rooms (Les Belles Perdrix).

Vinous

About wine:

Mondot 2019 is opulent, silky, and delicious, just as it was when first released. Bright red fruits, cinnamon, mint, crushed stones, blood orange, and exotic spices give it a magnificent primary intensity. Supple contours and bright acids give the 2019 tons of appeal and liveliness. Aging in barrels (60%) and vats (40%) has preserved a good dose of freshness. 2023-2034

James Suckling

About wine:

Pure Merlot with lots of berry and stone character. Medium-bodied, with round tannins that spread across the palate. Creamy texture and delicious finish. 40% without wood. So enjoyable right now.

Yves Beck

About wine:

Intense bouquet marked by notes of red berries and freshness, as well as a floral touch. One could almost say it has a "Pinot" character. Delicious and fruity attack on the palate, where the wine displays a juicy and thirst-quenching character. A sapid, salty wine that begs for another glass. It is crisp and refreshing.  2023-2028

Anthocyanes - Yohan Castaing

About wine:

[…] Superb acidity, beautiful bitter notes with limestone acidity that drives the whole wine forward, giving it remarkable verticality and length. A magnificent second wine that is on track, very linear with perfectly integrated tannins. Airy on the finish and refined compared to 2018.