1993 l'Eglise Clinet

I have always been a fan of '93 Pomerols, and this is a good example of the vintage. It's sweet and silky, with lovely smoke and berry aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a succulent aftertaste. Hard not to ask for another glass at the tasting.--L'Eglise Clinet vertical. Drink now through 2006. James Suckling,Wine Spectator 1999.

L'Eglise-Clinet is one of the best-situated vineyards in Pomerol, and proprietor/winemaker, Denis Durantou, is one of the most meticulous producers in Bordeaux. The vineyard is composed of tracts of very old vines (one planted in 1930). The wine, which is made from extremely small yields of two tons per acre, is normally a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, all of it aged in 60% new oak casks. This wine may merit a higher rating. I am not a fan of red wines with green overtones, so perhaps the spicy, green peppery bouquet held my score down. Nevertheless, this deep ruby/purple-colored wine possesses an undeniably grilled meat, smoky, peppery, sweet, fruity nose that is evolved and intense. The wine hits the palate with a nice display of sweet, ripe, soft fruit, and low acidity. It is medium-bodied, with the kirsch liqueur, black-raspberry fruitiness that is a hallmark of this estate. The 1993 should be at its peak after 2-3 years of cellaring; it will last for 12-14 years. I would opt for drinking it on the young side, as the fruit may fade before the tannin. Feb 1997, www.robertparker.com