An open-knit, soft warm nose of mulberry, ripe raspberry and a wet sand. With aeration, aromas of cherry liqueur emerge. The palate is very well-balanced, suave, almost Pomerol in character. Rich with silky tannins. A wine that cries out for food. Burnt toast on the finish. Needs another 5-7 years to reach its plateau. Very fine. Tasted April 2005.

This accessible, yet tannic example of Sociando-Mallet possesses a deep ruby/purple color, and excellent aromatics consisting of jammy black cherries, blackberries, and cassis, as well as subtle notes of minerals, earth, and new oak. This is a deep, long, muscular, tannic wine that is structurally similar to the 1996. Patience will be required from purchasers of this high class wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.

Very typical Medoc (i.e., cabernet sauvignon) aromas of blackcurrant and herbs, plus some vanillin oak. Firm and fresh on the palate; dense yet fine for this wine (from the higher cabernet percentage?). Tannins are already nicely integrated. Lots of underlying fat. Compares favorably to many top names of the northern Médoc, should be a terrific value. 88-91.