Dame de Montrose 2013

The 2013 La Dame de Montrose has a light, fleshy strawberry and Morello-scented nose thanks to the high percentage of Merlot (69%). The palate is nicely balanced, perhaps "skinny" in the context of other vintages, but the acidity imparts decent tension and there is a dash of spice on the aftertaste that livens things up. Don't expect too much and you'll be able to enjoy this over the next 5 or 6 years.

The second wine is a blend of 69% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Cabernet Franc. It has a surprisingly precocious nose because of the slightly higher percentage of Merlot. The oak is a little obvious at the moment. The palate is ripe on the entry, a little chewy perhaps with a firm grip, a solid La Dame de Montrose that feels just a little pushed towards the finish at the moment. Tasted March 2014.