2004 Magrez Fombrauge

This 80% Merlot/20% Cabernet Franc blend from the finest five acres of the Fombrauge vineyard (St.-Emilion’s largest working vineyard) is a big, sexy, full-bodied effort with impressive concentration as well as aging potential. While it will not compete with such great vintages as 2000, 2001, and 2005, the 2004 is top-notch. A deep ruby/purple hue is accompanied by notes of graphite, creme de cassis, sweet cherries, and vanilla. The wine offers tremendous opulence, richness, and depth in addition to the potential to last and improve for 15 or more years.

Deep crimson and very powerful nose. Lots of obvious ripeness. Extremely sweet start – this wine is almost up on its hind legs with its tongue hanging out. Certainly full of pleasure with the tannins quite well hidden. Not a terroir wine but a winemaker’s exhibition. Enjoyable though. (JR)