Soft purple flowers on the nose, quite perfumed and seductive tones with ripe black fruit, peonies, blueberries and plums. Rich and supple, round with mouthwatering acidity - clean and crisp, steely and mineral with a core of crushed stones, pencil lead, slate and liquorice-edged black fruits. Power and concentration - it's plush and potent, but also quite tight with the flavours expanding vertically. Not as generous and openly friendly at this point but so svelte and well worked with a sense of style to it.

Earthy, blackberries, herbs, licorice and roses are found in the nose. On the palate, the wine is packed with layers of dark red and black fruits, round, creamy tannins and a touch of roasted, leafy herbs in the mid-palate and in the finish. This baby Montrose is perfect to enjoy while waiting for the Grand Vin to develop. Drink from 2023-2038. Read more at:https://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/wine-tasting-note/?vintage=2020&wine=La%20Dame%20de%20Montrose

The 2020 La Dame de Montrose is deep garnet-purple in color. Notes of black cherries, mulberries, and juicy plums jump from the glass, followed by suggestions of cracked black pepper, mossy tree bark, and crushed rocks. The medium to full-bodied palate coats the mouth with juicy black fruits and mineral accents, framed by ripe, rounded tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing on a lingering peppery note. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown

Firm, almost fierce tannins, packed with dark chocolate, pencil lead, graphite, blueberry and cassis fruit. Less generous than usual at this early stage, with muscle and a classically reserved character, bitter almond and tar on the close of play, give this a few years to soften. Harvest September 10 to 29. 30hl/h yield

The second wine of Château Montrose, the 2020 La Dame De Montrose is terrific, with a sunny, forward, medium-bodied style as well as lots of ripe red and black fruits, notes of sweet tobacco, sandalwood, and spice, supple tannins, and outstanding length. Open and complex, it’s going to shine for 15 years if well-stored. The blend is 49% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, and the balance Cabernet Franc, checking in at the same alcohol as the Grand Vin, 13.4%.

A very fresh and driven style, with a racy core of damson plum, red cherry and dried lilac laced with hints of black tea and iron, which nicely extend the finish. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2024 through 2034.  – JM

The 2020 Dame de Montrose does not quite have the horsepower of its peers on the nose—quite floral and Margaux-like—though it is nicely defined. The palate is medium-bodied with a ripe, sweet entry. Marmalade- and licorice-infused black fruit lead to a sinewy, slightly blocky finish. It just lacks a bit of finesse, though for a Deuxième Vin? No complaints. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. -- Neal Martin