Grand Vin Saint-Émilion 1989

A hugely decadent Saint-Émilion Grand Cru loved by the critics; the 1989 is “a spectacular achievement” according to Robert Parker, and for Neal Martin it “remains the greatest Troplong Mondot that I have tasted.” The great news is that this powerful wine has at long last entered its drinking window.

With a reputation for being a bit of a firecracker, Château Troplong Mondot sits on top of a hill overlooking its neighbours on the Right Bank. They describe this wine as “grandiose” from “a truly great vintage”. Although the 1990 stole the headlines, we feel that its predecessor has more sophistication and longevity.

Primal in its younger days, it is now mellowing slightly with age. Displaying rich black cherry, blackcurrant jam, brandy-soaked prunes, dark chocolate, mocha, truffle and liquorice, this has plenty of meat and oak on its bones. This wine will pair best with a concentrated dish and commands many hours in which to while away with it and watch it develop.