Viniou Reviews
Château Montlandrie 2023, from the Castillon-Côtes-de-Bordeaux AOC, is a fine representative of the right bank’s finesse and structure. The classic varietal blend for this appellation centres on Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2023 vintage in Bordeaux experienced a balanced growing season, offering healthy, ripe fruit with good acidity. Château Montlandrie’s terroir boasts clay-limestone soils, granting the wine both concentration and a distinctive minerality. Vinification typically involves temperature-controlled fermentation and a careful regimen of ageing in French oak barrels, part new and part used, which allows both fruit purity and subtle spice notes to shine through.
The Castillon-Côtes-de-Bordeaux lies just east of Saint-Émilion and shares much of its renowned neighbour’s climate and soil profile. The region enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild winters, warm summers, and the beneficial influence of the Dordogne river. Clay-limestone soils bestow depth and freshness to the wines. Although historically overshadowed by the more famous crus, this appellation has seen a resurgence in quality, as passionate winemakers invest in both vineyard management and cellar technique. The region’s winemaking history stretches back to Roman times, and today its wines often rival those from more celebrated areas.
A wine of this calibre and balance will pair charmingly with classic Bordeaux cuisine—think entrecôte à la bordelaise with a red wine and shallot sauce, or a rack of lamb with rosemary. The rich yet supple tannins also match beautifully with duck breast or earthy lentil and mushroom ragout. For cheese, opt for aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire, which echo the wine’s complexity without overwhelming its nuanced character.
Allow Château Montlandrie 2023 a brief aeration before pouring, especially in its youth, to unlock aromatic depth. Serve at a temperature between 16 and 18°C to appreciate its expressive bouquet of black fruits, spices and floral undertones, along with its harmonious, lingering finish.
