The 2002 Richebourg has a strong ruby color and reveals magnificent aromatic depth. Its candied red cherry, sassafras and cola scents lead to a medium-bodied core of cassis, blackberries, spices, and cherries galore. Silky-textured, deep, and holding much in reserve, this concentrated, elegant wine also displays an exceptionally long finish. Projected maturity: 2008-2020. Bravo! Various American importers.

Medium red. Highly perfumed, ineffably complex aromas of strawberry, currant, bacon fat, cocoa powder, gunflint, coffee and smoked meat. Dense, sappy and wonderfully intense, with exhilarating flavors of smoked meat, spices, minerals and underbrush. Conveys a powerful impression of soil tones. Builds almost freakishly on the back end, finishing with a kick of spice and a flavor of pink peppercorn. A wonderfully suave, extremely long Richebourg that offers great early appeal but has the spine to develop in bottle for 10 or 15 years.