1997 Mas de Daumas Gassac

70.3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3.9% Merlot, 13.1% Cabernet Franc, 2.1% Tannat, 2.8% Malbec, 1.3% Pinot Noir, 5.1% Syrah, 1.4% rare varieties. TA 3.34  g/l (sulphuric) , pH 3.60. Milk chocolate, herbal, leafy notes and a lightly jammy fruit on the palate. Retains lightness despite the almost cooked fruit notes. Something a bit tar-like on the finish. Lots going on here; changes as you taste. (RH)

80% Cabernet. Relatively pale, even paler than the 1996. Brûlée, more subtle and attractive nose than the 1996. Aromatic and charming. Full, rich, open and easy. Definitely a charmer. Tannins in abeyance. This could be enjoyed now for the tannins make their presence felt only at the very end of the palate. (JR)

Moderately saturated medium red. Slightly musty, herbal-edged nose. Peppery, somewhat shallow red berry flavors are juicy and delineated but a bit green and simple. Finishes with slightly drying tannins.