At a glance

Producer

Château Troplong Mondot

Region

Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$120-$180 per bottle (2024 retail market)

Tasting profile

Dense black fruit (blackcurrant, blackberry), graphite, cedar, with firm tannins and earthy undertones

Evolution: Gradual development of tertiary notes: leather, truffle, tobacco, and forest floor over next 5-10 years

At peak: Rounder tannins, complex aromatics, harmonious balance between fruit and earthiness

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high acidity providing balance and freshness

Tannins

High and well-structured tannins requiring some aging

Alcohol

Approx. 14.5% ABV, typical of top Bordeaux

Aging potential

25-35+ years given vintage and producer quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2055

Optimal window

2024 to 2058

Current status

Approaching ideal maturity, but still youthful with robust tannins

Current condition

Firm tannins, high concentration, developing tertiary aromas

2016 Bordeaux was a stellar vintage with ripe, balanced fruit and excellent tannin structure. Château Troplong Mondot is a classified Saint-Émilion estate known for power and finesse, favoring extended aging that reveals complexity and softened tannins after a decade. Thus, optimal drinking window peaks 8-12 years from vintage, with longevity up to 35 years.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with rich dishes: roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, game birds with mushroom sauce, aged hard cheeses like Comté or Manchego.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and open complex aromas

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, reduced use of chemicals, water conservation via drip irrigation, energy-efficient winery operations, lightweight bottle usage

Château Troplong Mondot practices sustainable viticulture focusing on soil health and biodiversity. While not certified organic or biodynamic, it adheres to progressive environmental practices. The estate’s location and export orientation contribute to a moderate carbon footprint, partially mitigated by energy-saving winery technologies and optimized packaging.