Sumptuous notes of mulberries, spring flowers, kirsch, black currant liqueur, graphite and spice appear more projected and evolved than in most barrel samples of La Mondotte. Extravagantly rich, full-bodied and multidimensional with soft tannin and low acidity, this is a precocious, gorgeously proportioned effort that should be drinkable in 4-5 years. It will last for two decades. This is another spectacular performance from consultant Stephane Derenoncourt and proprietor Stephan von Neipperg. From a 12-acre estate situated high on the clay and limestone plateau above Pavie Decesse, La Mondotte undeniably has one of the most outrageously fine vineyard parcels in all of St.-Emilion. The final blend of the 2012 was 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc that tips the scales at 14% natural alcohol. Yields were a minuscule 20 hectoliters per hectare. The harvest took place between October 9-18. Drink: 2017 - 2037 -Wine Advocate #206 Apr 2013

The La Mondotte is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc picked between 9th and 18th October and matured entirely in new oak. It has a gorgeous, sensual bouquet with luscious, pure blackcurrant, fresh strawberry and vanilla aromas that are beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with fleshy ripe tannins, plenty of rounded, caressing red fruit and the oak is seamless integrated on the finish. This will be a great La Mondotte. Tasted April 2013.

This is very intense with great depth of fruit and length. Full body, with super integrated tannins and a long, long finish. The minerality and citrusy acidity gives the wine wonderful tension and length.

Delivers singed vanilla and apple wood notes melding with a core of steeped plum and red currant fruit. A sanguine hint emerges slowly on the finish, while briar and mineral notes add range. The minerality will help this stretch out. —J.M.

[80M/20CF] A dense black fruit nose; concentrated, vital, firmly tannic wine; a sweet core of fruit, long and fine and very vivid to taste within the fine dry tannin; linear, refined, and with a fine pure fruit persistence. Very nice, long term, intensely fruity, sinewy wine. 2025-35+ [M.Schuster, Bordeaux Mar/Apr 2013]

[18-] Drink 2018-2030 85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc. 100% new oak. Inky with black core. Lots of colour this year, especially in the wines on clay-limestone. Intense, spicy blackcurrant fruit. Deep and rich but with a finesse to the tannins that bring a sort of levity and flow on the palate and length at the same time. A baby but elegant too and surprisingly juicy on the finish. Power and finesse. (JH)