Full red-ruby. Expressive aromas of currant, espresso and tobacco leaf, with a lightly weedy herbal nuance. Then sweet and fine-grained but a bit youthfully taut in the middle, with harmonious acidity giving the wine a juicy quality. Finishes with broad, sweet tannins that will not get in the way of enjoying this wine soon.

Wine Advocate A sexy blend of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the robust 2007 Monbousquet displays lots of toasty oak intermixed with sweet kirsch, blacker fruits, and spice box. Plush, medium to full-bodied, and supple textured, it is ideal for drinking over the next 7-8 years. Score: 90. —Robert Parker, April 2010.