Graphite, camphor, incense, tobacco, smoke and game burst from the glass in the 2013 Montrose. A dark, brooding wine, the 2013 boasts notable depth and tannin considering its mid-weight structure. The 2013 will require at least a few years to come together. Graphite, scorched earth, sage and rosemary are some of the notes that inform the intense finish. This has real density for the year. Based on two tastings so far, the 2013 Montrose is making a very strong case for itself as one of the wines of the vintage. The blend is 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot, with quite a bit more Cabernet than the more typical 55%.

A firm Montrose with very silky tannins and a pretty acid, fruit balance. Full body. Integrated and seamless for the vintage. Spicy undertones. A blend of 68% cabernet sauvignon, 29% merlot and 3% petit verdot.

The 2013 Montrose has an understated, lilting bouquet with blackberry and briary scents and dried rose petals, gaining more intensity as it opens over 2-3 minutes in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin. It shows good weight in the mouth, quite linear and masculine (typical for Montrose) but there is respectable detail and mineralité coming through on the satisfying finish. Not a top tier Montrose, but then again, why would it be in this difficult vintage. It will still give pleasure over the next 12-15 years.