This has a typically rounded, dense, opulent nose with a conspicuous slathering of new oak, quite Burgundian with an animally note developing..lush bilberry, kirsch and raspberry. The palate is smooth, precocious, ripe red-berried fruit, a citrus edge, real tingle on the tongue towards the finish. Good potential, but very backward. Tasted October 2009.

From bottle, the 2002 appears to have gone to sleep. Nevertheless, it is a fine effort exhibiting a dense ruby/purple color along with notes of roasted coffee intermixed with melted licorice, black currants, dried herbs, and earth. Spicy and medium-bodied, with moderate concentration, this beautifully made, elegant offering can be drunk early in life, but is capable of evolving for 10-13 years. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016.