A wine of the vintage candidate in 2008, Troplong Mondot’s offering was produced from yields of 41 hectoliters per hectare and achieved 14.5% natural alcohol. A classic blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, it offers copious quantities of blue and black fruits, a full-bodied opulence, sweet tannin and a fabulous texture as well as finish. Already drinking beautifully, it will be even better in 2-5 years and should last for 20 years. A great effort for the vintage, it couldn’t happen to a more deserving proprietor, Christine Valette. Bravo!

Robert Parker (Wine Advocate #194, May 2011)

A wine of the vintage candidate in 2008, Troplong Mondot’s offering was produced from yields of 41 hectoliters per hectare and achieved 14.5% natural alcohol. A classic blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, it offers copious quantities of blue and black fruits, a full-bodied opulence, sweet tannin and a fabulous texture as well as finish. Already drinking beautifully, it will be even better in 2-5 years and should last for 20 years. A great effort for the vintage, it couldn’t happen to a more deserving proprietor, Christine Valette. Bravo!

Bright ruby-red. Superripe, musky aromas of black cherry, minerals and flowers. Lush and silky but quite backward, with excellent energy to the primary dark fruit and mineral flavors. Chewy, powerfully structured wine. The superb building finish features substantial granular tannins and lovely definition.

Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. I have criticized recent vintages over the alcohol levels, but I have no agenda against what is after all, one of the first properties I ever visited. And the 2008 is turning out to be a little beauty. It has a lovely floral bouquet with vibrant red fruit, cassis and violets that soar from the glass. It displays deftly integrated oak with Asian spices beginning to come through. The palate is full-bodied and tannic, very grippy with spice, black olive and blackberry. There is some fine, earthy Cabernet Franc here and shows good structure on the finish. It deserves a decade in the cellar. Tasted January 2012.

– eRobertParker.com, May 2012

Medium-deep ruby. Perfumed aromas of redcurrant, coffee liqueur and milk chocolate. Bright and fresh on entry, offering ripe flavors of smoky plum and balsamic vinegar. Finishes with lovely polished tannins and excellent persistence.

Tasted blind. Very direct, savoury nose with some tarry tannins on the end. Pinched-mouth syndrome for the moment. (JR)