Robert Parker, Jr.-Wine Advocate:  Rated as An outstanding wine of exceptional complexity and character.   "A blend of approximately two-thirds Merlot, one-third Cabernet Franc and 8-10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2005 exhibits plenty of toasty oak, roasted herb, meat juice, blackberry, cherry, and spice characteristics along with a touch of incense. Full-bodied and opulent, with an atypically rigid structure, this is a remarkable achievement for such a humble terroir. It admirably reflects Gerard Perse’s obsessive commitment to excellence." Apr 2008

Winery:  "Dark violet, the reflections are black and bright. The robe is thick and generous. The flavors are of juicy, slightly sun-baked black fruit. The aromas range from mocha to toast, characteristic of these rich and powerful wines. The mouth is opulent with smooth, firm, tannins, still young and full of promise. A persistent and long finish, the sign of a beautiful vintage. The aromatic range will unveil itself within the next 5 years, but we will have to wait a decade to find out fully. Let us be patient."

Wired For Wine:  After over a decade with Gerard Perse at the helm, Château Monbousquet has become one of the region’s leading vineyards. Mr. Perse crafts stunning, modern-style Bordeaux which show lovely earthy, fruit and oh-so-subtle spice characteristics. Come along with us, winelovers, as we embark on our compellingly tactile adventure! The full body of this Chateau Monbousquet Saint-Emilion Grand Cru works fabulously with lamb and meats, as well as chicken and game birds. Pour your inaugural glass and enjoy it with a first course of gemelli pasta and a ragout of lamb with black olives and fresh thyme. You might not make it to dinner… The toasty oak of this Grand Cru will shine brightly with a plank-roasted filet of beef served with an onion/garlic/tomato chutney. The roasted herb side of this Saint-Emilion makes eggplant, fennel and chard a great side dish choice, perhaps sprinkled with parmesan. Oh la la. If you’re feeling to-the-manor-born, we say roast some squab or pheasant with prunes, which will resonate with the Château Monbousquets core fruit flavors. If you’re just looking for a reason to open this opulent, dense, fat wine, and don’t want to slave in the kitchen, toast some fresh bread a make a cold roast beef sandwich. Crazy? Maybe, but très très delicious too! After a short rest, pour a final glass and serve it with a ripe, robust Camembert. We don’t know about you, but we say encore!!

Size:  750ml
Varietal:  60% Merlot; 30% Cabernet Franc; 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
Alcohol:  14.0%
Region:  Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France