80% merlot 20% cabernet franc. Count von Neipperg's crown jewel atop the "Pavie slope" overlooking the St. Emilion plateau this 4.8-hectare property is comprised of clay and limestone soils. Aged in 100% new oak. A sexy nose of red cherry and Chambord. The fruit flavors are dense and layered with an underlying freshness from the vintage's high acid. Hedonistic on the palate with mocha chocolate and orange citrus notes all buttressed with controlled soft tannins. One of the richer Right Bank 2011s though it was done well with a skilled hand. This wine will be fun to drink young and will be at its best between 2025 and 2033.

The 2011 La Mondotte has a very pure, defined bouquet that offers luscious dark cherries and blackberry scents, hints of violet petal emerging with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with a silky smooth entry, very well-judged acidity and a seamless finish that slips down the throat with style. This is simply a gorgeous and voluptuous Saint Emilion that will seduce at twenty paces, which is something you could not ascribe to many 2011s. Tasted April 2015. - Neal Martin