Tertio de Montrose 2018

The esteemed history of Château Montrose spans two centuries, a narrative shaped by three dedicated families. Each generation of owners has left an indelible mark, driven by an unwavering pursuit of excellence and a vision that has resulted in legendary vintages. These pioneers of the Médoc were not only visionary builders but also astute managers who understood how to cultivate and enhance the château's exceptional terroir. It is upon this rich foundation that Montrose today builds its distinguished image and maintains its unique position among the world's most exceptional wines.

Château Montrose is blessed with remarkable natural advantages, complemented by centuries of careful stewardship, resulting in one of the Médoc's most privileged winegrowing terroirs. The 95-hectare (234-acre) vineyard is particularly notable for surrounding the château, winery, and outbuildings in a single, continuous block – a historically rare and advantageous layout. This unity not only simplifies vineyard management but also allows the estate to approach it as a single entity, facilitating efficient organisation and meticulous monitoring of each individual parcel. The soil, described by geologists as "elite cores," is the result of millions of years of geological layering, creating outcrops with excellent natural drainage towards the estuary. These terraces feature a surface layer of gravel and sand over a clay-rich subsoil, which retains natural water reserves crucial for the vines' hydration. Tertio de Montrose, the estate's third wine, is crafted from younger vines and press wines with the same rigorous quality standards as the Grand Vin and La Dame de Montrose, and is aged for 12 months, with 15% in new barrels. The 2018 vintage, a year that marked a significant step towards sustainable viticulture despite challenging weather, ultimately yielded concentrated juices of exceptional richness, showcasing the potential of this unique terroir.

Tertio de Montrose 2018 presents an attractive garnet red colour in the glass. The nose is both intense and expressive, revealing delicate aromas of red fruits, particularly cherry and strawberry, intertwined with subtle notes of brown sugar. On the palate, the wine is beautifully balanced, offering a fresh and round texture that makes it approachable and enjoyable in its youth. This Bordeaux blend, primarily composed of Merlot (49%), Cabernet Sauvignon (28%), Cabernet Franc (17%), and Petit Verdot (6%), reflects the quality and care inherent in the winemaking traditions of Château Montrose.