2024, Domaine de Villaine, MERCUREY, 'Les Montots', BIO

North-east of the appellation, near Clos des Myglands and La Framboisière. Plain south-facing, the soil a little red from the iron. Fans of this wine will be saddened to learn that 2025 will be the last vintage for this wine that the domaine has made since 1991 as the lease was not renewed by the owner.

An even more restrained nose reluctantly displays its array of markedly earthier aromas of plum, dark cherry and crushed anise. There is fine volume and richness to the powerful and concentrated medium-bodied flavours that also conclude in a rustic, serious and compact finale. As is often the case, this is old school in style so plan on at least some cellaring. 2031+
88-90 Burghound.

The palate is dense and quite structured for a Mercurey, classic in style with white pepper and cloves that infuse the red fruit. Fine depth on the finish, yes, this is a Mercurey worthy of short-term cellaring.
90 Neal Martin, Vinous.