2004 La Grande Rue

While I was moderately disappointed with this wine from cask, it has recovered nicely and the wood influence has diminished somewhat and is now more subtle, leading to robust and powerful flavors that are rich, full and sweet and possess good dry extract that gives a fine sense of volume on the textured and energetic finish. An admirable effort for the vintage and I am impressed.

(aged in 80% new oak) Medium red. Sappy aromas of red cherry, rose petal, minerals and coffee. Fat, supple and full, with impressive mid-palate breadth. Pepper and spice notes add complexity. This one is dry in a positive way. The longest of these '04s, finishing with fine tannins and lingering spice character.