Wine Advocate
byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2001
I seriously underestimated the quality of this wine last year. My concerns about a lack of a mid-palate have evaporated, as this wine has fleshed out beautifully. We always need to remember that the purpose of barrel aging (the so-called elevage) is to (1) sweeten the tannin, (2) develop more complexity, and (3) concentrate the wines. That is exactly what has happened.
The dense ruby/purple-colored 1999 Montrose exhibits a sweet nose of black fruits, iron, graphite, and smoke. Medium-bodied, with a supple, open-knit personality, low acidity, excellent concentration, and well-integrated tannin, it is a beautifully made, forward style of Montrose that should be ready to drink in 2-3 years, and last for 15-18. If it keeps developing in this manner, it will merit an outstanding score. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2018.