1997 Montrose
By Chateau Montrose
The 1997 Montrose from Chateau Montrose, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
Embarking upon a tasting of the 1997 Montrose from Chateau Montrose is a journey into a vintage often overshadowed by the lauded 1996 and the legendary 2000. But therein lies the subtle charm of this offering—a Bordeaux that demonstrates how the less heralded years can yield wines of enthralling complexity for the astute investor and connoisseur alike.
Characteristics of a Sleeper Vintage
An immediate note to investors: while 1997 was not celebrated with the rapturous applause given to its neighbours, the value proposition here is intriguing. The year was marked by a relatively cool and wet summer in St-Estephe, giving rise to an early harvest. These climatic trials have lent the 1997 Montrose a character of refined elegance, opposed to the exuberance of riper vintages.
This vintage unfolds with aromas redolent of dark berries, cassis, and subtle hints of truffle – a bouquet that whispers rather than shouts the complexity at hand. On the palate, one encounters a delicate tannic structure that envelops gracefully evolved flavours of tobacco box, leather, and earth. Acidity remains poised, ensuring that each sip concludes with appropriate length and finesse.
An Enlightened Approach for Collectors
For the patient collector, this wine's journey has been one of quiet ascension. Those betting on the enduring quality of Chateau Montrose’s terroir will find their faith rewarded with an experience that belies expectancy. Particular in its pace but generous in depth, it serves to remind us that understated vintages can flourish remarkably in the cellar.
The seasoned tapestry of climatic hurdles adeptly navigated by Chateau Montrose culminates here. The years have coaxed forward tertiary nuances without sacrificing structural integrity—a testament to savvy viticulture and winemaking prowess.
In summary, investing in the 1997 Montrose becomes more than an acquisition—it is an understated declaration of confidence in the resilience and potential unfolding within each bottle from this venerable estate.
Market price (GBP)
£740.00
12x75cl
Highest score
87
POP score
105.71
Scores and tasting notes
The 1997 Montrose has turned out better than expected. Although lighter and less concentrated than usual, fragrant aromas of plum liqueur, soil, cedar, and leather are attractive. Round and tasty, with good fruit, low acidity, and fine ripeness, it will drink well for 5-6 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #128 Apr 2000
Tasted at the château, the 1997 Montrose is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot picked between 10-24 September. It demonstrated more fruit on the nose when compared directly from vintages originating in the early 1990s. It is not the most complex bouquet, yet it remains fresh and lively, with secondary aromas of cured Italian meats, melted tar and a touch of cedar. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin and well-judged acidity. A little austere and certainly foursquare, the 1997 has adequate length, but the overall impression is of a conservative Montrose that will not improve further. Still, I appreciated the tart, soy-tinged red cherries on the aftertaste and it constitutes a Claret that you would snap up on a restaurant list if found at a good price. Tasted September 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2017
A deep garnet colour. Pink/salmon rim. Nose closed. Needs a little more fruit. Has potential. Good length. Tasted en primeur in Bordeaux. Tasted April 1998.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal