A candidate for a perfect score, the 2003 Montrose has been a superstar since the first time I tasted it in barrel. Showing no signs of weakening, it is an amazing wine from this fabulous terroir. It boasts a deep blue/purple color as well as a stunning perfume of blueberries, black currants, blackberries, licorice and camphor. Dense, full-bodied and rich with an unctuous texture, well-integrated, melted tannins, and a long, heady finish, this big, brawny, super-intense, gorgeous 2003 is just beginning to enter its plateau of full maturity. It should remain there for at least two decades.
Robert Parker Jr
Wine Advocate #214 Aug 2014
97
After the 2009, this is the most exciting Montrose ever made, with intense aromas and flavors of plums, blueberries, spices, tobacco and cedar. It’s full-bodied with extremely refined tannins but a dense, delicious palate. Better in 2016, but why wait?
James Suckling
jamessuckling.com, July 1st 2013
97
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. The Montrose '03 puts the Calon-Segur in the shade with tightly coiled earthy black fruit, briary, graphite, hot steaming espresso and Provencal herbs that are all beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with firm but fine ripe tannins, a crisp seam of acidity and wonderful focus on the multi-layered finish. It represents a long-term Montrose for sure - enormous persistency and grip on the aftertaste. This is a barnstorming Saint Estephe! Tasted March 2013.