Medium, medium-plus colour, pretty much transitions between cherry and ruby-red. A lovely nose, impressive in a sort of understated way, medium-sweet, precise red raspberry and berry fruits of lovely width, hints of cedar and finally caramel too. In the glass it gradually becomes creamier and rounder with high tones, more and more depth – impressive. In the mouth the wine is fresh, intense and perfectly showcases the texture of the 2001 tannins – super smooth and a different class to most 2002’s. Depth, intensity and tasteful oak on the creamy length. Top-class 2001 and very drinkable – I’m stocking-up.

Similar colour. The nose is deeper with a slightly more roast fruit character, but fresh cherry top notes though. Similar intensity to their ‘Ruchottes’, but a little more silky and certainly a longer, more intense finish. Not the complexity of their Ruchottes, but smoother and still plenty of interest. Despite the smooth profile of this wine, I reckon it is younger still than the Ruchottes – a super wine to have in the cellar.