Some of my earlier reservations about over-extraction and hard tannin appear to be unfounded. The medium-bodied, supple-textured, charming, well-balanced 2002 is presently revealing a sweet perfume of black cherries, currants, figs, plums, and smoky oak. It is ideal for drinking over the next 7-8 years.This 6.2-acre vineyard planted with 30-year old 100% Merlot vines can produce some of Bordeaux’s sexiest, most voluptuous wines. Given its heavy, sandy soils atop the famed Crasse de Fer, I am surprised it did so well in 2003. The vinification is impeccable as this wine receives such garagiste/Burgundian techniques as malolactic in barrel, aging on its lees, and no filtration at bottling. Oddly enough, when such ancient Burgundy winemaking techniques are used outside of France’s Cote d’Or, they are called “international, modern-styled winemaking” ... try and figure that out.

A good amount of raspberry and new wood in this one. Very creamy vanilla character on the palate. Medium-bodied, with ripe tannins and a medium finish. Some might find all the new wood intrusive but I like it. Best after 2007. 830 cases made. -JS