2000 Malescot St Exupery

This estate, which has continued to impress me in recent years, hit a home run in 2000. Showing slightly better than I rated it previously, this wine is deep bluish/purple with some lightening at the edge, and its floral nose displays notes of melted licorice, crushed rock, blueberries and black raspberries. A wine of extraordinary balance, equilibrium, and purity, with supple tannins, this medium to full-bodied, concentrated effort is already compelling and has hit its window of full maturity, where it should stay for another 15-20 years.

A cut above most of these wines in quality, but also in price too usually. Very deep colour with lift and toasty oak. Very seductive blend of ripeness and a tantalising sense of much left in reserve. (JR)

Intense aromas of crushed berries, earth, meat and spice. Full-bodied, with super well-integrated tannins and a long, green tobacco and berry finish. This is an estate on the rise. Superfine. Almost forgotten by some. Best after 2010. 8,600 cases made. James Suckling,Wine Spectator 2003