The 2020 Monbousquet Bordeaux Blend from Saint Emilion, France, presents a compelling profile that has captured the attention of several wine critics. This vintage consists of a blend of 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aging in French oak barriques, half of which are new, contributes to its character.
Jeb Dunnuck awarded this wine an impressive 96 points, praising its "full-bodied, concentrated, opulent profile" with notes of ripe black cherries, cassis, chocolate, and leafy herbs. He highlighted its "terrific purity, velvety tannins, and incredible richness," suggesting it has the potential to evolve over 15 years.
James Suckling, giving it 94 points, described the wine as "linear and creamy with lovely, fine tannins." He noted the dark-berry, violet, stone, and licorice character, emphasizing its "freshness at the end." Similarly, Jeff Leve echoed a 94-point score, pointing out the lush and polished nature of the wine. He remarked on its "vibrant, refined finish" and the impact of reduced oak usage on its freshness and texture.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate and Wine Spectator both recognized the wine’s merits, awarding it 93 and 95 points, respectively. The Wine Advocate noted its "expressive black and red berry layers" and "fragrant earth note" finish, while Wine Spectator appreciated the "lush wave of boysenberry, blackberry and black cherry" with a long finish.
While Decanter and Vinous offered more reserved scores of 92, both acknowledged the wine's complexity. Decanter noted its "serious liquorice on the palate" and "dark, savoury" character, while Vinous commented on its "explosive and deep" nature, expecting the tannins to soften with time.
Overall, the 2020 Monbousquet is praised for its richness, freshness, and aging potential, making it a noteworthy vintage from the Saint Emilion region.