The first offering in what turned out to be a remarkable decade for this property, the 2000 Clos Fourtet was the finest wine produced here in many years, but it was subsequently eclipsed by the 2003, 2005, 2008, and 2009. The dense plum/purple-tinged 2000 exhibits notes of wet rocks, camphor, blackberries, and cassis. Full-bodied with tremendous density, it appears to have shed much of its tannin, and is through its adolescent stage. It should continue to evolve effortlessly for another decade.

Medium ruby-red. Nose initially juxtaposed inky and medicinal notes with a slightly stewy aspect but grew riper and plummier with aeration. Offers good volume and richness in the mouth, with flavors of cherry, chocolate, tobacco leaf and menthol and a hint of herbaceousness. Finishes with fine but slightly drying tannins and good lingering sweet fruit.