Old-school
Montrose is one of the Médoc’s most stoic châteaux. The gravelly soils of Saint-Estèphe give it a signature backbone, and the 1981 is a prime example of old-school claret: firm, savoury, and resolutely unshowy. A wine that speaks more in gravel than in fruit.
Tasting note
Dried tobacco, old leather, soy, and forest mushroom. The palate is lean, still structured, with bright acidity and a dry, lifted finish.
Fun fact
In the 19th century, Montrose was known for hunting and game—a “château for men” in the Médoc. It still carries that aura: serious, structured, and no-nonsense.
Score 89/100
A small note on our tasting impressions:
Many of the wines we taste come from bottles that aren’t quite sale-worthy—levels a bit low, labels too distressed, or simply not pretty enough for the spotlight. While we love the character these bottles bring, our notes are not based on a single glass alone. They reflect years of tasting experience—both within our team and from trusted friends in the wine world.
As for the fun facts?
All true (we promise)… though possibly enhanced by the gentle glow of a good glass of wine.