2003 Destieux

Proprietor Christian Dauriac, who produced his finest wine to date in 2003, is ratcheting up the quality level at this 20-acre estate planted with 66% Merlot and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon on the limestone hillsides of the St.-Hippolyte commune in St.-Emilion. The renowned Michel Rolland is Destieux’s winemaking consultant. A sleeper of the vintage, the 2003 offers a sexy concoction of jammy black cherries intermixed with blueberries, blackberries, charcoal, toasty oak, and barrique. It is a flamboyant offering with great fruit and purity as well as a full-bodied unctuosity that cascades over the palate. The low acidity and lofty alcohol (13.5%) provides an early accessibility that allows the wine to be drunk now or cellared for 12-15+ years. Very impressive.

Very very deep colour but the nose has raw elements as well as exceptionally ripe, sweet ones. Slightly confected oak note too, but certainly flashy and attention-grabbing. (JR)