2008 Ch. Montrose, St Estèphe

Black-red, complex, concentrated blackcurrants nose, firm on the palate, quite tight and tough despite inherent richness, a classic Montrose which needs waiting for. Drink 2020-35.
(Decanter Magazine - Apr-2009)

One of the superstars of the vintage, this classic Montrose is not as showy or opulent as the 2010, 2009 or 2003, but it offers a dense purple color followed by gorgeously sweet black raspberry and black currant fruit intermixed with loamy, earthy, forest floor notes, a floral component and a long, full-bodied finish. The 2008 was fashioned from yields of 44 hectoliters per hectare which is slightly less than the 2010's 45 hectoliters per hectare. Forget it for 5-8 years and drink it over the following 20+.
An undeniably great Montrose, after some time in wood, the 2008 should achieve the heights of the 2003, 1990, and 1989... An inky/purple color is accompanied by sweet, pure aromas of black fruits and spice. This full-bodied wine exhibits superb concentration, sweet tannin, and a multilayered, textured, full-bodied mouthfeel with no hard edges. The sweetness of the tannin, the extraordinary purity of fruit, and the intense aromatics suggest a year of great ripeness...This should be a long-lived wine (35 years), yet it will drink surprisingly well at a young age...
(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Apr-2009)

Shows blackberry and black licorice, with hints of mint. Full-bodied and fruity, with very fine tannins, good acidity and a nice intensity of mineral and spices.
(James Suckling - Wine Spectator - Apr-2009)