Wines Saint-Estèphe Château Montrose - La Dame de Montrose

Viniou Reviews

La Dame de Montrose, produced by Château Montrose, is the distinguished second wine of this renowned estate in Saint-Estèphe, a prestigious appellation of the northern Médoc in Bordeaux. Blended primarily from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, often complemented by Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, this non-vintage cuvée mirrors the château’s classic style. On the palate, expect generous aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and violet supported by subtle spicy undertones. The wine is vinified with meticulous care, employing traditional Bordeaux methods of long, temperature-controlled fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels, imparting depth and a refined tannic structure.

Saint-Estèphe’s terroir is defined by its proximity to the Gironde estuary, bringing a moderating influence that tempers both summer heat and winter chill. The soils are characteristically gravelly atop a clay subsoil, combining excellent drainage with an ability to retain moisture, particularly favourable for Cabernet Sauvignon. The slightly cooler climate of the area results in structured, robust reds with deep colour and excellent ageing potential. Château Montrose itself has a storied history dating back to the early 19th century and continues to set a benchmark for the appellation, consistently delivering wines of deep complexity and poise.

As for food pairings, La Dame de Montrose’s structure and freshness make it a versatile companion for robust dishes. Traditional Bordelais fare such as entrecôte à la bordelaise (rib-eye in a red wine and shallot sauce) would resonate beautifully. Lamb, especially roast or slow-cooked with herbs, complements the wine's earthy notes and firm tannins, as would game such as venison or duck breast. Mature hard cheeses like Comté or aged cheddar also provide excellent balance.

For the fullest aromatic expression and a supple mouthfeel, serve La Dame de Montrose at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for about an hour will help open up its bouquet and soften the tannins, especially if enjoyed in its youth. This wine is best shared with good company and fine cuisine, paying tribute to the elegant complexity of Bordeaux.