It is tempting to give this wine an outstanding score because of its seductiveness. However, I do not think it possesses quite the level of extract and concentration to merit an exceptional rating. Nevertheless, it is an extremely pleasing style of claret. The deep ruby color is followed by an open-knit, black cherry, raspberry, and smoky, roasted herb-scented nose. There is round, lush, ripe fruit, medium body, exceptional elegance and purity, and a soft, velvety-textured finish. Think of it as liquid charm and silk. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2014.

Good ruby-red. Aromas of red fruits, clove, tomato, dill and smoky oak. Supple, sweet and charming, with slow-to-open red fruit flavors and suave texture. Finishes with very good length, integrated tannins and a hint of menthol. Very attractive wine, but misses out on the concentration and ripeness of the vintage best examples from Pomerol.

A very youthful, fresh, violet scented nose. Very rounded. Elegant black fruits and violets on the palate. Very pure extraction fruits with lush rounded tannins. It does lack some complexity mid-palate but there is an attractive fresh mint flourish on the finish. Tasted May 1998.