(a blend of 95% merlot and 5% cabernet franc; 3.53 pH; IPT 65; 13.8% alcohol): Bright ruby. Sexy, compelling nose of blackcurrant, violet, white pepper and minerals is an absolute knockout. Then very refined on the palate, with a delicate spiciness to the blackcurrant, red plum and mineral flavors, but with noteworthy fleshiness and ripeness lifted by harmonious acidity. This is a very great and impeccably balanced Magdelaine in the making. Finishes long and silky, with a persistent strawberry note. Jean-Claude Berrouet considers this to be a classic Magdelaine: very well balanced and delicious. I think this is an excellent example of just how easy it is to misjudge Magdelaine on release and how well it develops in bottle in strong vintages.

From the stable of Jean-Pierre Moueix, this estate has now been absorbed by the nearby Belair (renamed Belair-Monange). Exhibiting gorgeous kirsch liqueur notes with some plum and Asian spice and dense ruby/garnet to the rim, this 2005 is full-bodied, rich, and bigger and more masculine than this wine tends to be. It is a beauty, with loads of fruit, great purity and texture. Drink it over the next 20-25 years.

Medium red. Sweet cherry, currant, tobacco and earth on the nose. Sweet, suave and smooth, with very good density to the red cherry and rose petal flavors. Quite understated in the context of the year, giving an impression of gentle extraction, but with very good structure for aging and considerable class.