This fabulous vineyard was never exploited until Stephan von Neipperg took it over in 1996. Situated on a perfectly exposed slope planted in limestone and clay, the vines average 50 years of age, and are cropped at low yields (in 2005, the yields were 20 hectoliters per hectare). As do many of Bordeaux's avant garde garage wines, La Mondotte sees a Burgundian-styled pre-fermentation cold maceration, pigeage, and aging on its lees with no serious clarification prior to bottling. The inky/purple-tinged 2005 reveals gorgeous aromas of roasted herbs, incense, Asian spices, graphite, coffee, and oodles of blackberry and black cherry fruit. The limestone soils provide a freshness and distinctive minerality. This powerful, multidimensional, full-bodied, rich St.-Emilion exhibits a hint of unctuosity (the wine is a blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc), high tannins, fresh, lively acidity, and an exceptionally long aging curve. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040+.

(still finishing its malolactic fermentation; from a crop level of 20 hectoliters per hectare) Deep, saturated ruby-purple. Superripe aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, chocolate and minerals. Wonderfully silky and smooth on the palate, displaying extraordinary sweetness for a sample that still has some unconverted malic acidity. Explosive finish features gripping tannins and a chewy sensation of extract. A great vintage for this tiny property on the late-ripening plateau east of St. Emilion.

Fabulous aromas of blackberries and black licorice. Hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with lots of velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Massive. Pure fruit. Score range: 95-100