The formidable Alain Brumont, an innovative and visionary producer of exceptional dynamism whose properties of Château Montus and Château Bouscassé became household names for the whole region on the international stage, has now been joined by his stepson, Antoine Veiry. Antoine is a deft and accomplished young winemaker who has amassed a wealth of experience from working in Bordeaux (Château Carmes Haut-Brion), Burgundy (with Maison Joseph Drouhin) and for a number of other estates worldwide. He is now bringing a fresh perspective while remaining steadfastly attached to the estate's heritage—which includes championing the local Tannat grape variety—and preserving but refining his stepfather’s style.

Août 2024

Acquired by Alain Brumont in 1980, Château Montus remains a state-of-the-art Madiran estate. The primary terroir features steep south-facing slopes adorned with large pebbles, while the subsoil is rich in yellow and red clays. Under the guidance of Antoine Veiry, Brumont's stepson, a more delicate oak aging process has gradually been introduced. Previously, some wines underwent up to 40 months in new oak barriques. Presently, the Château Montus reds spend only a year in barrique before an extended period in large 80-hectoliter foudres. Veiry changed barrique's staves thickness from 22mm to 27mm to lower the oxidation rate, with oak nowadays sourced from Austria, Italy, and France. Additionally, the wines are aged for two years in bottle before release. Despite micro-oxygenation being common in Madiran to soften Tannat's tannins, Château Montus abstains from this practice. The 2019 vintage showcases solid quality across the range. While the regular Montus and Montus Blanc Sec offerings exhibit spot-on balance and intriguing aromatics, the XL and La Tyre are outstanding. Though capable of aging for over two decades, these wines require less time to show their full potential compared to vintages from the past.

Avril 2024