Much of the world’s Merlot is undistinguished. Its default expression is a soft, rounded wine lacking tannin, acidity, and character. But in Bordeaux, Merlot thrives as an essential component to the region’s most iconic wines; and on the Right Bank Merlot reaches its ultimate expression. Today’s wine is from St-Emilion, where the exact combination of limestone and gravel soils produce a version of Merlot with balance, definition, and depth.
The 2017 Chateau Montlisse St-Emilion Grand Cru is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, and a rich, velvety blend with a classic combination of dark fruit and spice. Vinous reviewer Neal Martin loved the 2017 Montlisse, awarding 92 points and finding it “medium bodied with supple tannins, a fine bead of acidity, much fresher than many of its peers with a lovely, caressing finish. Excellent.”
Pour this on an autumn Sunday afternoon with a roast.
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Montlisse St-Emilion Grand Cru 2017
bottle price: $38
