2013 Troplong Mondot
By Chateau Troplong Mondot
2013 Troplong Mondot from Chateau Troplong Mondot, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
The 2013 vintage in Bordeaux faced challenging conditions, with a damp start and late flowering, yet the resilient Merlot of Chateau Troplong Mondot rose admirably to the occasion. Though a year that demanded extensive skill and diligence from vintners, one finds in the 2013 Troplong Mondot a testament to the tenacity inherent in Saint-Émilion’s finest terroirs.
A Distinct Expression of Resilience
In less-than-ideal vintages, the character of a wine often reveals the depth of its roots—both literally and metaphorically. The 2013 Troplong Mondot is no exception, displaying an admirable complexity and persistence on the palate that defies the odds set against it. This particular wine acts as a yardstick to gauge the adaptability and expertise woven into every bottle from Chateau Troplong Mondot.
Investment in Challenging Vintages
For fine wine investors, discerning the potential in such vintages is crucial. There is an attractive counterpoint narrative at play here; it's years like 2013 that distinguish the everyday from the exceptional. Investing in a bottle such as the 2013 Troplong Mondot is thus not merely an acquisition but an endorsement of extraordinary viniculture triumphs.
On tasting, one is greeted with measured tannins and a bouquet that speaks more of strength than sunshine. There are hints of dark fruit compote layered with subtle smoky undertones, culminating in an unexpectedly fresh finish—a reflection of both challenge and mastery neatly enclosed within each bottle.
In closure, what sets the 2013 Troplong Mondot apart is its embodiment of resilience. As one sips this Saint-Émilion marvel, there is an undeniable recognition that certain wines can rise above climatic adversity to deliver something genuinely memorable. It mirrors a fascinating chapter for collectors and connoisseurs alike, marking this vintage as one to watch with keen interest within the investment landscape.
Market price (HKD)
HK$4,650.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
37.69
Scores and tasting notes
Full-bodied and atypically rich and concentrated for a 2013, it boasts beautiful blueberry and creme de cassis fruit as well as underlying chalky minerality, and good richness and concentration. It is a noteworthy homage to Christine Vallete’s brilliant efforts at Troplong Mondot, which resulted in the elevation of this estate in the 2012 St.-Emilion classification. It can be enjoyed over the next 10-15 years. It has been less than six months since the irrepressible and brilliant Christine Vallette passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. I must confess that tasting at Troplong Mondot was a powerful emotional experience. However, the 2013 is clearly one of the stars of the vintage.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 August 2014
Full-bodied and atypically rich and concentrated for a 2013, it boasts beautiful blueberry and creme de cassis fruit as well as underlying chalky minerality, and good richness and concentration. It is a noteworthy homage to Christine Vallete's brilliant efforts at Troplong Mondot, which resulted in the elevation of this estate in the 2012 St.-Emilion classification. It can be enjoyed over the next 10-15 years.
It has been less than six months since the irrepressible and brilliant Christine Vallette passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. I must confess that tasting at Troplong Mondot was a powerful emotional experience. However, the 2013 is clearly one of the stars of the vintage.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #214 Aug 2014