1996 La Mondotte
By Chateau La Mondotte
1996 La Mondotte from Chateau La Mondotte, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
In the pantheon of Bordeaux's formidable offerings, the 1996 La Mondotte from Chateau La Mondotte stands with elegant distinction. It harks back to a vintage that defied expectations and caught the weather gods in a benevolent mood. Given the exceptional balance and structure this year provided, significant interest has steadily accrued amongst discerning fine wine investors.
Quintessentially 1996: A Vintage With Poise
The hallmark of 1996 in Bordeaux was the September swivel; a mid-harvest shift from a challenging start to an Indian summer paradise that brought the grapes to ripeness with astounding precision. As with many of nature's serendipitous acts, this benevolence allowed for meticulous fruit selection at Chateau La Mondotte, capturing the essence of their terroir with striking fidelity.
On the palate, one may discern on the 1996 La Mondotte sumptuous layers of dark cherry and cassis interplaying with earthy undertones. The tannic structure is both resolute and gracefully integrated, a testament to the remarkable longevity that investors have come to appreciate. The wines from this quaint, yet notable estate are often imbued with a complex bouquet - think fresh truffles and graphite against a backdrop of subtle oak nuances - each glass a reflective journey through its noble Saint-Émilion roots.
The wine's luminous character speaks volumes about not only the fortitude of its vintage but also reaffirms Chateau La Mondotte's artisanal yet precise approach to viticulture and vinification.
An Investment Worthy Vintage
With hindsight as an ally, it is manifestly clear that the 1996 La Mondotte is not merely a snapshot in time but represents one of those fortuitous convergences of climate and craft. As such, it presents an enticing prospect for wine investment. Aligning allure with acclaim, it is posited elegantly within investment portfolios, promising depth, complexity and potential for value appreciation. Its steadfast presence as an archival treasure shines brightly amongst connoisseurs seeking out vintages that resonate with Bordeaux's storied winemaking narrative.
Employing adequate cellar patience will likely yield dividends—both sensory and financial. A bottle of 1996 La Mondotte continues to adorn collections with poise, offering a consummate expression of Saint-Émilion's profound winemaking legacy.
Market price (HKD)
HK$12,550.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
77.06
Scores and tasting notes
An amazing wine, the 1996 La Mondotte (approximately 800 cases made from a 30-year old parcel of 100% Merlot planted on a hillside between Le Tertre-Roteboeuf and Canon La Gaffeliere) is a super-star. If readers cannot get excited by tasting the 1996, they should change beverages. It is amazing for both its appellation and the vintage, revealing a remarkable level of richness, profound concentration, and integrated tannin. The thick purple color suggests a wine of extraordinary extract and richness. This super-concentrated wine offers a spectacular nose of roasted coffee, licorice, blueberries, and black currants intermixed with smoky new oak. It possesses full body, a multidimensional, layered personality with extraordinary depth of fruit, a seamless texture, amazing viscosity, and a long, 45-second finish. The tannin is sweet and well-integrated. This blockbuster St.-Emilion should be at its best between 2006-2025. A dry, vintage port Fonseca! For its immense size, this wine is neither heavy nor over-done.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 April 1999