The 2013 Tour de Mons comes across as a bit rough around the edges today, but it nevertheless possesses good depth and persistence at this level. Tobacco, smoke and cedar all add nuance on the fruity finish.

56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot. Gaëtan Laurand joined the château as vineyard manager. A tractor was replaced to improve the harvest and enable the return of land to cultivation. The grape reception was improved for the machine-harvested grapes. A vineyard restructuring plan was established. Mid crimson. Ripe fruit on the nose but very little structure on the palate. To be drunk young, and sold cheap! Pretty austere finish – ripe? (JR)

55% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot. Liquorice, mostly, then a whiff of cherry sweetie. But it's not giving much away. Medicinal. Lambasting tannins and then vengeful acidity. Sandpaper and acid. Surely better for redecorating than drinking? (TC)