Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 91
Tasted at the 1999 horizontal at Bordeaux Index. More mature in colour, but the bouquet is just gorgeous, demonstrated the “degraded fruit†character that Francois Mitjavile strives for. It has a Burgundian, a Richebourg-like allure, wonderful definition with ripe red cherries, wild strawberry, a vibrant, fresh candied quality that is difficult to resist. The palate is medium-bodied, very smooth an lascivious but with good acidity. It actually more structure and reserved than the bouquet implies, certainly a Saint Emilion with good backbone but it is cloaked in layers of fruit. There is a very attractive touch of Asian spice towards the finish. Wonderful. Drink now-2020. Tasted June 2009.
Anticipated maturity: 2009-2020
Vinous 89-91
Medium ruby. Smoky aromas of red fruits, roast coffee, tobacco and black pepper. Fat, sweet and oaky, with notes of bitter chocolate, espresso and caraway seed. In a closed stage today and less vibrant than the 2000, with a high-pH mouthfeel. A more rustic style than the ’00 or the ’98. Mitjavile says that a fining will give the wine more ampleur.
JancisRobinson.com 17.0
Sweet, vibrant and distinctive on the nose. Much more integrated and better balanced the other St-Emilions. Lovely richness – a really fine, energetic bottle.
Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020
