Chateau Troplong Mondot 2010

LISA PERROTTI-BROWN: "The 2010 Troplong Mondot has a deep garnet color. It is a little closed to start, with patient swirling it opens out to reveal evocative notes of rose oil, dark chocolate, stewed plums, and Morello cherries, plus hints of cardamom, iron ore, and fragrant soil. The full-bodied palate is densely packed with black fruit and exotic spices layers, supported by very firm, yet very ripe, velvety tannins and compelling tension, finishing with epic length and depth. It is tempting now but could use a good 5 years+ more in bottle."

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Troplong Mondot explodes with beautiful floral notes of red roses and candied violets over a core of plum preserves, kirsch and blueberry pie with a waft of bouquet garni. Full-bodied, rich and decadently fruited, it has bags of plush tannins and just enough freshness, finishing very long and sinfully hedonic."

THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "Palate coating richness, luscious black plums, cherries, dark chocolate, licorice, espresso and hints of blue fruit get all over your mouth, palate, teeth and gums. The wine is pure velvet in texture with layers of opulent fruits and a finish that sticks. Decadent in character, this is only about potential today. But with more cellaring, if this is your thing, the wine is a beauty."

JAMES SUCKLING: "Very intense blackberry and blueberry character on the nose. Full body with super refined tannins and beautiful fruit. So delicious and pretty. Very rich and a little high-octane. Yet luscious and flamboyant."

WINE SPECTATOR: "Ripe and dense, but very vibrant and energetic, as a torrent of cassis, blackberry coulis and fig paste rushes through, framed by enticing black licorice and evenly roasted alder and juniper notes. The long finish has lots of grip and acidity, but they work together and are deeply embedded. Captures the fruit and structure of the vintage superbly. Best from 2015 through 2030. 6,165 cases made."

WINE ENTHUSIAST: "Clocking in at 16%, this is a massive wine. Heady smoky wood aromas have given the wine a dry character. The immense palate has bitterness, extract and a solid core of tannins. It has considerable weight, just beginning to develop, although the alcohol does show through at the end."