The large-scaled, opulent 2003 was made from yields of 17 hectoliters per hectare. Its dense plum/purple color is accompanied by a flamboyant nose of lead pencil shavings, blackberries, plums, figs, and road tar. This full-bodied, opulent St.-Emilion exhibits creme de cassis and kirsch-like flavors, low acidity, ripe tannin, and a savory, expansive mouthfeel. It can be drunk now and over the next 15+ years. Drink: 2006 - 2021
-Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #164 Apr 2006

(91-94 pts)
Sweet, exotic notes of coffee beans, chocolate espresso, melted licorice, and copious creme de cassis fruit are followed by an opulent, full-bodied, layered wine that shows tremendous purity, low acidity, and nicely integrated alcohol and tannin. This fleshy wine seems much more evolved at this stage than the 1998 or 2000 did at a similar stage. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2017+.
-Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #158 Apr 2005

(92-94 pts)
A brilliant example of Fombrauge’s luxury cuvee, this blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc emerges from a 7.5-acre vineyard situated on clay/limestone soils. This is a full-throttle, big, deep 2003. While it may not hit the heights of the 2000 or 2001, it is one of the finest wines of the vintage. It reveals a deep ruby/purple color along with a nose of roasted coffee, black currants, berries, licorice, new saddle leather, and spice box. The complex aromas are followed by a dense, medium to full-bodied offering with great fruit as well as wonderful vigor and freshness. Given the low acidity and ripe tannin, it should hit its peak in 3-4 years, and evolve nicely for 12-15. Drink: 2007 - 2019
-Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #152 Apr 2004

Rich and full, this modern-styled, beautifully made, majestic, rich, multidimensional St.-Emilion boasts a dark plum/purple color. All the oak has been absorbed, but, surprisingly, there is not a lot of difference between this wine and the regular cuvee of Fombrauge. Nevertheless, this is fuller and richer with plenty of life remaining. Enjoy it over the next decade.

Good ruby-red. Black raspberry, kirsch, minerals, exotic oak and a whiff of porty damp earth on the aromatic nose. Rich, lush, deep and sweet, with brooding, superconcentrated flavors of black cherry, minerals and licorice. Finishes with huge but ripe tannins that avoid dryness and oak-driven flavors of dark chocolate, caramel and toffee. Seems considerably denser than the 2004. I like this.

Extremely dark purplish crimson. Heady overripe notes on the nose which made me think I wasn’t going to enjoy this but they were followed by lovely fresh fruit on the palate. Hallelujah! Spicy licorice and then juice. Sandy tannins but not green tannins. This should have quite a life ahead. (JR)