2003 Ch. Montrose, St Estèphe

If ever there was any doubt that the wines of St Estèphe had triumphed in 2003 then a taste of this magnificent wine immediately put the record straight. A wonderful nose of ripe, pure Cabernet Sauvignon with layers of spicy oak introduces a palate that is at once intense, multi-dimensional, loaded with minerals, black cherries, firm acidity and powerful tannins, all singing in perfect harmony. This is possibly the best Montrose ever made, surpassing its 2000 and possibly even its legendary 1990.