Professional reviews
Jancis Robinson (16.50)
Smooth texture with plenty of lift and tension. Fine, chalky tannins on the finish. Saline edge. Terroir present but restrained
Vinous (96)
95-97
The 2025 La Mondotte is powerful yet understated. A rush of black cherry, lavender, sage, menthol, licorice and espresso conveys tons of intensity. Gravel, scorched earth and dried herbs add classic Mondotte savory and mineral dimensions. Broad, chocolatey tannins support the explosive mid-palate and finish. This really sizzles with limestone-infused energy.
Jeb Dunnuck (95)
94-96
Deep purple/ruby-hued, the 2025 La Mondotte is based on 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc resting in 30% new barrels. Checking in at 13.5% alcohol, it has a limestone bomb-like profile in its red and black fruits, liquid violet, chalk, and graphite aromatics. On the palate, it's medium-bodied and focused, with fine tannins, beautiful balance, and outstanding length. It shows the focused, straight profile of this château today.
Decanter (97)
Marking its 30th vintage, Château La Mondotte continues to justify its stature as one of the smallest yet most compelling Premier Grand Cru Classé estates. From 70-year-old vines rooted in a 4.5-hectare parcel on the clay-limestone plateau east of Saint-Émilion, the wine reflects its terroir with precision: silty clay over a rocky subsoil, naturally regulating water and encouraging deep rooting, with excellent drainage and sun exposure ensuring full, early ripening. The aromatics are immediately captivating: crushed tobacco, violets, and a seamless interplay of red and black fruit. On the palate, there is remarkable energy and vivacity, the ripe fruit carried by vibrant, finely tuned structure. There’s both depth and lift here, a sense of concentration without weight, as everything seems to glide rather than press. A fabulous expression of site and vine age, and a standout in the appellation. Bravo!
Falstaff (97)
Deep dark ruby garnet, violet reflections, subtle edge brightening. Delicate notes of candied violets, black cherries, cassis, blackberry confit, a hint of precious wood and lime zest, inviting, attractive bouquet. Juicy, red berry, elegant, finely structured, fine tannins, extract-sweet aftertaste, mineral-salty finish, a delicate food companion, shows length and potential.
