Full, deep ruby. Wild, vibrant aromas of black cherry, violet and flinty minerality. Densely packed, sweet and creamy, with uncanny depth to the black fruit and mineral flavors. Almost painful today, with outstanding energy and fruit of steel. Seems high-toned but it works, as the middle palate boasts superb definition and lift. Finishes with palate-staining persistence and tannins virtually hidden by the wine's stuffing and sweetness. Built for the long haul.

A brilliant effort, the 2008 La Mondotte is a candidate for “wine of the vintage.” This blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc hit 14% natural alcohol. Yields were 24 hectoliters per hectare. The wine boasts an opaque purple color along with sweet aromas of mulberries, creme de cassis, blackberries, espresso roast, chocolate and toast. Sweet tannin, an opulent mouthfeel and a flamboyant personality make for a prodigious/compelling wine that can be drunk now or cellared for two decades or more. This is an unbelievable 2008 of extravagant intensity and richness. Bravo! Anticipated maturity: now-2025.