La Dame de Montrose, St Estèphe, 2016

Martin and Olivier Bouygues, of the Bouygues construction and communications empire hold the keys to this magnificent second growth Chateau. In fact it is Martin's wife, Melissa who is the official President of Montrose. The wines of this great estate were firm favourites of their father. In 1995 after an experience with a bottle of the 1990, Martin vowed to buy the chateau. Sure enough, 10 years later and he was in possession of the keys... A huge renovation project began in the cellars, a 20 hectare parcel was re-patriated from Phelan Segur and two of the biggest names in Bordeaux were appointed as directors: Hervé Berland and Jean-Bernard Delmas - clear intent that the Bouygues meant business... This is definitely a chateau with first growth pretentions, producing wines to back that up. The 2016 Dame de Montrose is crafted from 52% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc and 11% Petit Verdot. A little reticent initially, then a gorgeous perfume of minerals and flowers. This is salty and lithe and possesses plenty of class for a second wine. Taut and precise with great purity - not broad-shouldered, but sure to put on some weight during elevage, this is destined to be a very handsome and classical Dame.