June 29, 2023 - Almost but not quite opaque with some pretty plum at the core and burgundy on the rim. Plenty of plum on the nose with sour and black cherry both adding notes only to be joined by cedar, licorice, saddle leather, and mineral. Those notes carry through with a chorus on the palate. Somewhere a hint of both vanilla and mocha appear on the finish. The mouthfeel is full in a claret sense without any New World heft. The soft tannins invite you to hold the wine and roll it around and across the palate. This is an easy drinking claret just now. 13% alc. With seared (beef) sirloin steaks and bourbon au poivre sauce. 06.29.23. Recommended.
February 7, 2021 - Thin body.
December 4, 2020 - This is not a bad wine. The tannins have softened, the wine has developed into something quite suave and full-bodied, with some spicy St.Julien notes, the only problem being the fruit, of which there isn't really enough. There's enough grip to hold for a few more years but I can't imagine why it would improve.
May 31, 2020 - Very solid despite its age! Shows no sign of being over the top
December 25, 2019 - Bue 25 décembre, bon.
February 23, 2019 - I'm quite surprised, i would never have guessed that this was a 2005. A 2013 yes, but...I won't open the next until 2014 at the earliest. (Even though it is highly drinkable now)
December 30, 2018 - Easy drinking, though not at its peak yet. Took a while to open out - initially quite closed, but showing some decent complexity as it evolved
May 5, 2018 - Needs a little air then opens up beautifully
December 24, 2017 - Still quite primary on the nose. Nice velvety fruit, with hints of maturity starting to appear.
November 9, 2017 - Distinctly Bordeaux with a nose of cigar box, cedar, cassis and warm red bricks. The bouquet folds into the palate with each flavor adding a clear voice, the sum being more than its parts with each stepping into the spotlight and then graciously stepping back for the next voice. A finish of roasted tomatoes and cocoa. The lighter body does not distract from the pleasure of the wine. Just as with the first bottle zero sediment. 13% alc. With pan-seared, bacon wrapped filet mignon (beef) (DDB’s birthday - a Thursday; going out tomorrow). Highly Recommended.