2003 Sanctus

This minuscule 9-acre parcel of La Bienfaisance vineyard, planted on primarily clay and limestone soils, is treated differently by the proprietor, receiving Burgundian winemaking techniques of malolactic in barrel and aging sur-lie. It is bottled without filtration. The blend is 70% Merlot and 30% Caberent Franc. Revealing an opaque plum/ruby color as well as a juicy, succulent style and flamboyant aromatics (roasted coffee, dried herbs, sweet currants, black cherry jam, blackberries), this deep, full-bodied, opulent, unctuous 2003's density and chewiness nearly hide its significant tannin. Although approachable, 2-4 years of bottle age will be beneficial; it should keep for 12-15+ years.

Bright ruby-red. Lively, floral aromas of black cherry, violet, licorice and cocoa powder. Dense but fresh, with suave flavors of black fruits, licorice and chocolate supported by a solid spine of acids and chewy, broad tannins. Impressively broad (the alcohol here is close to 14%) but not at all overly sweet. An impressive sample from enologist Stephane Derenoncourt.

This minuscule 9-acre parcel of La Bienfaisance vineyard, planted on primarily clay and limestone soils, is treated differently by the proprietor, receiving Burgundian winemaking techniques of malolactic in barrel and aging sur-lie. It is bottled without filtration. The blend is 70% Merlot and 30% Caberent Franc. Apr 2006, www.robertparker.com