The popularity of La Mondotte hinges largely on its rags-to-riches story (plus, it’s not often that the INAO can be thanked for the creation of an exciting new domaine). That, and the wine’s extreme characteristics composed of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, which arguably lead the charge of the garagiste movement. Of course, the astonishingly small yield – often as little as 18 hectolitres per hectare – means the estate produces less than 1,000 cases of wine per year, and thanks to a number of extremely favourable reviews, demand consistently far outstrips supply, creating around the wine an aura of intrigue and status which has piqued the interests of collectors and investors for many years. But the wine’s success does not rely solely on its reputation. Its graphite, liquorice and black cherry flavour, coupled with a thick mouthfeel, cool climate minerality and surprising freshness, speaks for itself.