(55% merlot and 45% cabernet franc) Bright, deep red-ruby. Blackberry, licorice and violet on the nose; quite dominated today by the cabernet franc. Then juicy, pure and delineated, with elegant, fine-grained, extremely primary dark berry, violet and licorice flavors that mount slowly and build impressively on the very long finish, as the tannins arrive late. Quite dense in the middle but also aromatic and light on its feet.

A brilliant achievement for proprietor Stefan von Neipperg, this blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits an exuberant, cedary bouquet revealing scents of espresso roast, chocolate, pain grille, and sweet red and black fruits. Opulent and fleshy for a 2004, this sexy beauty offers plenty of purity, symmetry, and sweet tannin. It will provide enjoyment over the next 10-15 years.

Very deep crimson, very intense, opulent nose. Round, sweet start and then acidity. A certain rawness then kicks in. Not nearly settled down. Quite prominent, dry tannins for the moment. (JR)