The exuberant aromatics of the 2003 Clos Vougeot are filled with boldly spicy red as well as black cherries. Medium to full-bodied, rich, and plush, this expressive wine displays softly-textured red and black fruits. Angle-free and persistent, it is a candidate for drinking between 2006 and 2014. Importer: Martine’s Wines, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400

Tasting note: This is remarkably exuberant for a young Clos de Vougeot with fresh and airy earthy red and black berry aromas that merge into huge, dense and very plumy full-bodied flavors that possess real finishing lift and punch. The power here is impressive but it's not top heavy and while this is particular in style as it is a very ripe wine but it manages to dazzle anyway.

Deep red. Aromas of medicinal black cherry, minerals and licorice; as ripe as this is, it's also distinctly cooler in the context of this collection. Supple and intense, with surprisingly fresh flavors of black cherry, violet and licorice. Finishes with very fine tannins and exellent length. This is very successful for the year.