The 1995 is possibly the finest d'Armailhac I have yet tasted. The blend was 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, and 32% Merlot. This deep ruby/purple-colored wine possesses low acidity, plenty of sweet tannin, and, in both its aromatics and flavors, gobs of ripe cassis fruit are nicely framed by the judicious use of toasty oak. Flavorful, round, generous, and hedonistic, this is a crowd-pleaser! Anticipated maturity: Now-2012.

Very good deep color. Deeply pitched, very reticent Pauillac aromas of cassis, shoe polish and mint. Sweeter and denser than the '94, but with some dull ripe notes in the middle. Finishes with substantial tannins. This gained shape with time in the glass.

Sweet and appetising with only a hint of ink. Rich, purple ink. Rather aggressive acidity and very slight caricature. Certainly full marks for effort here! Just a bit raw and light at the moment. (JR)