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.

Good medium red-ruby. High-toned aromas of dusty redcurrant, tobacco, game, smoke and tobacco, with a slight green edge. Offers moderate density and ripeness, with good cut and brisk acidity. Compared to the 2003 and 2004 vintages at this address, this wine shows some herbal currant leaf notes and a touch of finishing hardness. The tannins are a bit youthfully rough.

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.