A blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Montlandrie is deep garnet-colored. It pops out of the glass with notes of redcurrant jelly, kirsch, and blackberry preserves, leading to slowly evolving notes of powdered cinnamon, star anise, dusty soil, and tobacco. The medium to full-bodied palate is achingly plush with seamless freshness supporting the bright fruit, finishing long and earthy. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown

Fascinating aromas of white pepper, dark berries, dark chocolate and dried flowers. Medium-bodied, tight and tannic, yet the tannins are fine and angular. Bright acidity. Shows drive and focus. Extremely well done. Better after 2022.

This has great aromatics right off the bat and a creaminess to the fruit. Yet there’s still freshness delivered by menthol notes on the finish, along with tight spices. This is a young Cabernet Sauvignon that is already pulling its weight. Firm, bright, with real finesse and confidence. Good for medium-term drinking. No frost here, which makes winemaker Denis Durantou very lucky as some parts of Castillon were pretty badly hit. Merlot picked 20-26 September, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon September 28. Production this year expected to be 43,000 bottles, 40% new oak used.

(90-92) A deep shimmery ruby, the wine has sweetness and flesh. The red fruits are highlighted with licorice and cocoa. If you like ‘em young, Rubenesque with primary fruits and a little sugar on top, you may drink this upon release. The wine is a blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Denis Durantou's 2017 Montlandrie is bursting at the seams with the essence of blackberry jam, chocolate, cloves, new leather, licorice and menthol. Although not especially subtle, the 2017 packs a serious punch. I would prefer to drink it on the young side, while the fruit remains vibrant. -- Antonio Galloni

Cassis and plum notes lead the way here, followed by singed mesquite, tobacco and mineral details. Delivers ripeness and heft as well as good cut and freshness. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2028. — JM