Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 99
A tremendous achievement by Hubert de Bouard, the 2000 La Plus de la Fleur de Bouard (a 420-case luxury cuvee) is a blend of 80% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Franc and a dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Filled with richness and intensity, with elegance, harmony, and poise, it is one of the top wines of the vintage. Sadly, very little is available. Approachable, with a velvety texture as well as abundant notes of blueberries, coffee, black currants, kirsch, smoke, and licorice, it is a massive, rich (but not heavy) wine that should drink well for another 10-15 years.
Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025
Vinous 91
(bottled in March of 2003) Medium ruby-red. Nose conveys a roasted ripeness, offering jammy dark berries, kirsch, chocolatey oak and a suggestion of menthol. Fat and sweet on entry, then quite powerful in the middle and closed on the finish. The huge tannins saturate the cheeks and teeth. With its 14.6% alcohol, this very long, superripe wine could hold its own alongside a very ripe Napa Valley cabernet. If the 2001 brings most of its color and stuffing into the bottle, it will surpass this big boy.
