2000 Chateau La Mondotte St. Emilion

(98 Points) From a 11.3-acre vineyard cropped at 25 hectoliters per hectare, this blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc is a candidate for perfection. The 2000 La Mondotte has a saturated, inky purple color to the rim and a tight but enormously promising nose of blackberry and cassis liqueur intermixed with cherry, vanilla, espresso, mocha, and a hint of acacia flower. This unfined and unfiltered wine is enormously rich, with great intensity, fabulous purity, a layered texture, and a viscous, full-bodied finish that goes on for nearly one minute. In spite of its size, the wine has remarkable finesse and delineation. This is another tour de force in winemaking from proprietor Stephan von Neipperg and winemaking consultant Stephane Derenoncourt. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030. P.S. Wine Advocate # 146, April 2003