Château Troplong Mondot, 1er Grand Cru Classé, St Emilion, 2021

Tasting Note:

Aymeric describes the 2021 as a "stunning personality". It was the first vintage to be made in the new cuverie. He explained that "concentration is for free at Troplong", the secret was to be delicate during extractions, using just a gentle remontage (pumping over). The blending was the hardest of Aymeric's career. It wasn't until they incorporated a test tank of half whole bunch and half destemmed fruit (that was last to finish its malolactic fermentation) that they found the right equilibrium. The grand vin hails from the special plot at the highest point of the St Emilion Cote, with a layer of clay, big stones and flint. A complex savoury nose, Asian spices dried herbs and terracotta notes. This works. The recent trajectory to less rich wines continues in this complex and fine grained ’21. Already displaying a wonderful perfume, this should develop further in time. A cohesive and dialled down Troplong with tremendous energy. Finishes with sleek tannins laced with fine fruit and flowers. Delightfully classical, with precision and poise. A success! 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc. 13.5% Alc.