Smells big and ripe, with a burst of blackcurrant and cassis fruit with a cut of mint, as well as lots of smoky oak. Rich enough in fruit, but extremely tannic, and turns sharp and bitter on the finish. Could improve with age.——S.H.(11/15/2003)—— 84

Black-cherry and plum aromas on the nose open to similar flavors, with toast and mineral accents on the palate. An elegant and refined wine, with a lengthy finish that displays cassis and earth flavors, and moderate, even tannins. Not a heavy or fat wine, it shows very good balance and should be cellared for three to five years.——W.E.(11/1/2000)—— 90