The 2018 Clos de Tart Grand Cru Monopole is a distinguished Pinot Noir from the esteemed Clos de Tart vineyard in Morey St Denis, part of the Cote de Nuits sub-region in Burgundy, France. This wine is notable for its impressive concentration and complex profile, capturing the essence of one of Burgundy’s most renowned single vineyards.
Decanter awarded this wine a high score of 98 points, praising its deceptive concentration. "Absolutely bursting with blue and red fruits, the concentration is deceptive here, as it starts out juicy and full of air, but after a few minutes in the glass you start to feel the weight and the texture," the reviewer noted. The wine’s savory finish and tannic hold were also highlighted, indicating its potential for aging. Decanter suggests a drinking window from 2020 to 2032.
Vinous also rated the 2018 Clos de Tart Grand Cru at 98 points, emphasizing its complexity and balance. "The 2018 Clos de Tart Grand Cru was wonderful from barrel but now it seems to have gone up another level," remarked Neal Martin. He described the bouquet as infused with minerality and brambly red fruit, and the palate as medium-bodied with finely chiseled tannins and a persistent finish.
Burghound provided a slightly more reserved score of 94 points, commending the wine's refinement and tension. The review mentioned that "the 2018 Clos de Tart is not quite as concentrated as it usually is but it still has the stuffing to improve over the next 20 years."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave it 92 points, describing it as "rich, muscular and extracted," with aromas of raspberries, plum preserve, ripe berries, and warm spices. The review suggested that this wine would benefit from patience, noting its brooding and introverted profile.
Jasper Morris rated the wine at 95 points, highlighting its powerful framework and comparing its style to previous eras of winemaking at the estate. "This is a massive wine here, with crunchy minerals at the back, a touch of apple acidity," he observed, noting its firm but integrated tannins and severe black fruit profile.
Overall, the 2018 Clos de Tart Grand Cru Monopole is a formidable wine with significant aging potential, characterized by its complex fruit profile, refined structure, and substantial tannic backbone.