(13.5% alcohol; 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc) Full ruby. Vibrant aromas of blackberry, black cherry, bitter chocolate, licorice and mint. Densely packed and concentrated, with very primary flavors of crushed dark berries and mint. This has impressive clarity and inner-mouth energy for a merlot-based wine in 2002 (Durantou harvested on the early side, from September 21 through 26). Finishes with firm, chewy, building tannins and excellent length.

The 2002 l’Eglise-Clinet has a straightforward bouquet with more tertiary scents than other vintages, airy red berry fruit laced with soy and brown spices, now approaching full maturity. The palate is medium-bodied with more black fruit than the nose suggests, quite pretty though conservative in style with a slightly dour finish. Not bad overall.

Magnum. Loose and sweet and a bit simple with some green. Tart. 2013-ish?? (JR)