Château Troplong Mondot Saint-Emilion 2022 - 1er Grand Cru Classé B

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Perched atop 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 this specific location, as well as its dense, heavy clays—originating from the Agen 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 been managing 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:

Sublime aromas rise from the glass, revealing notes of dried herbs, tobacco, mint, and blackcurrant. Sumptuous and generous, its texture, richness, and aromatic depth are simply impressive: round and full-bodied, yet with such finesse that it never feels too heavy. It displays controlled power and remarkable confidence. Balanced, harmonious, and irresistible, this is an incredible wine that already seems very approachable. Its tannins are impeccable, and its aromas of juicy red fruits, enhanced by subtle notes of salty licorice, lend it nuance and interest. Still a bit shy, but what potential! Wonderful. 2030–2050

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

The 2022 Troplong Mondot has proven to be exceptionally beautiful. It exudes aromas of wild blackberries intertwined with notes of licorice, rose petals, incense, and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, complex, and multidimensional, with tremendous volume on the mid-palate, superb integration, and an indescribable sense of fullness. This terroir always offers great power, but I have never tasted a Troplong that is both so powerful and so harmonious and smooth. With a full-bodied finish featuring notes of violet, the 2022 embodies the very essence of this remarkable terroir. 2028–2055

About the estate:

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

About the estate:

Following the passing of its owner, Christine Valette-Pariente, in 2014, Troplong-Mondot—which sits atop the most commanding vantage point in Saint-Émilion—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 come to a close, 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).

Vinous

About the wine:

A wine of remarkable elegance and precision, the 2022 Troplong Mondot is exquisite. Crushed flowers, red berries, blood orange, spices, and menthol intertwine on the palate. Troplong Mondot is undoubtedly one of the most silky and refined wines of the vintage. Perfect balance. Tasted twice. 2030–2052

Terre de Vins

About the wine:

Six years ago, Troplong-Mondot embarked on a spectacular transformation; now it is fine-tuning the details. Driven by its unique terroir, it bridges the gap between power and brilliance. Grounded yet dynamic, it unfolds a dense, fresh texture and an energy that permeates every facet of the tannins. It is precise, athletic, and elegant: a flanker with both strength and grace.

Yves Beck

About the wine:

The bouquet unfolds in a delicate, subtle manner, while still highlighting its depth. The wine is not loud; it captures the attention with clear, accessible notes that awaken all the senses attuned to complexity and finesse. Very serene, the wine reveals a multitude of nuances, with freshness as its guiding thread. On the palate, the experience is much the same as the olfactory journey. The wine begins by revealing itself timidly, before letting its incisive structure take the reins and carry it forward, alongside tannins that are certainly firm but supportive, powerful, and perfectly integrated, further enhancing the freshness and persistence of the finish. A truly great Troplong Mondot—precise, mouth-watering, invigorating, and bordering on perfection. It has many years ahead of it to surpass itself and still have room to blossom! A great success. A serene, authoritative, and benevolent wine that knows exactly where it’s going and offers promising—and above all, already measurable—prospects. 2028–2048