Wine Director of Alain Ducasse Group and Head Sommelier at Plaza Athénée, Paris.
On opening the wine:
Visually, the impression is of a soft and comfortable richness driven by the wine’s dark ruby red colour. Not particularly limpid, but with a deep brilliance. The initial nose is direct and forceful. Floral aromas dominate (violet and peony), quickly joined by remarkably ripe fruit (blackberries). The nose evolves with notes of pink peppercorns and citrus peel. There is also a pleasing menthol freshness. It already shows great complexity for a wine this young. The palate immediately impresses with its balanced structure, based on the freshness and the acidity. The alcohol content is relatively high, which provides a lift to the body. A suave and sensual softness marks the complex fruit. It is ripe and warm. The length and finish display notes of dates and noble spices.
After 2 hours of being open:
The wine reveals itself to be truly complex, showcasing a peppered raspberry freshness unexpected in this vintage. Long and gentle aeration in the glass allows one to find all the hidden promise hinted at on first tasting.
2003
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