A blind sample for Wine Magazine that just blew me away. A very attractive, herbaceous nose with a hint of espresso. Good definition, though muted compared to others. The full-bodied palate and some supple sweet black fruits, good acidity and a high-toned character (though not cloying.) Lovely mocha and roasted herbs on the finish. This is excellent. Drink from 2008. Tasted April 2005.
Smoke, cinnamon, nutmeg and graphite on the nose, with a little fresh blackcurrant. The palate is mature, soft and cedary, with lots of spices and a hint of dried flowers. The core of black fruit is still there but the mature notes of undergrowth and spice have melowed into the wine. Ready to drink now.
Reserved nose - Cabernet dominates, with quite a lot of oak. Palate is unusually powerful for Margaux, with vigour and youth, good acidity and a sweet finish.