2001 Armand Rousseau Hospices Clos de la Roche

Medium, amber-edged red. Cherry, mocha and brown spices on the nose; a bit purer and livelier than the Mazy. Then sweet and full, with slightly green-edged plum and spice flavors. Rounder than the Mazy but could use more length.

A small notch up in size and weight but there is much more beguiling complexity plus more structure, especially on the earthy, rich, persistent and palate staining finish. I especially like the acid/fruit balance here as there is plenty of mid-palate sap to buffer the linear, precise and intense flavors that are supported by prominent yet ripe tannins. This may be the best vintage of this wine since the lovely 1996.

Full, bright red. Sappy strawberry and cherry fruit aromas complicated by leather, smoke and underbrush. Big, rich and sweet, with a distinctly musky animal quality. A rather muscular style, with good power. Finishes long and tactile, with a hint of vanilla.