Ch. Bellevue Mondotte (0.75 L)

A neighbor of Pavie Decesse, this vintage is composed of 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 100% new French oak. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Bellevue Mondotte is a little youthfully closed, revealing subtle suggestions of plum preserves, blackberry pie and cherry compote plus an undercurrent of violets, mocha and black soil. The full-bodied palate is firm and rugged, packed with taut, muscular fruit and finishes long and earthy. Give it a good 5 years in bottle, at least, and drink it over the next 25+.