This is 80% Malbec and 20% Merlot from southwest France. Purple in color, ruby swirls. The nose is dusty with plums. Some cherries come out later. On the palate, this is a bit reticent. Some cherries. Firm tannins. This could use a few years of cellaring. Good acidity. Would work well with food especially heavier dishes.
From the Cahors region of southwest France. In Cahors, Malbec is known as "Côt", "Côt Noir" or "Auxerrois", so the fact that the label says Malbec tells us a lot about the intended market for this wine. Not to mention that in other than in Alsace, naming a varietal on the label, is usually not a good sign. Of course, its what is in the bottle that count. Ruby in color. The nose is dusty with cherry hard candy. On the palate, this has sour cherry candy with slight plums. Light tannins. Good acidity. A short to medium finish. This is made to drink now, with BBQ or on its own. Noth
This is a second wine of Chateau Montrose. Tasted blind, with a tasting group, this was disappointing. It finished in last place for me and close to that for the group. It is a fine wine, but more was expected once the label was revealed. Purple in color, shimmering bright and opaque. The nose has cherries, black cherries and spice. On the palate, light tannins and sour cherries. Easy drinking. It is a blend of 52% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 13% Cabernet Franc. Right now, the Merlot dominates. Of course, with some, the Cabs could wake up and get the party started. Based
From the venerable Chateau Haut Brion, this is an inexpensive rose. A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Light salmon in color. Strawberries on the nose. The palate is clean with "red berries", mostly strawberries. This is easy and drinks well. Perhaps not the energy or brightness it had last year, so these should probably be drunk sooner than later. Works well with food.
