Very good saturation; blackish ruby. An open nose; ripe blackberry aroma is sweet and pure, with a touch of cassis adding a note of sappiness, and some toasty oak influence bringing notes of chocolate and brown spice. A very attractive bouquet. The palate is also tasty and complex, with slightly less fruity flavors, and a little more influence of the oak. Good. Good body, rich, some matte tannins, and very good acidity. The Cotes de Francs is just east of St. Emilion and north of Castillon. This is a 90% Merlot wine that has delicious aromas and flavors, and plenty of vibrancy. Very good!

Good saturated ruby. Vinous aromas of cassis, blueberry and menthol. Cleanly made, tight and penetrating, with youthfully backward black and blue fruit flavors. Extremely primary, with firm tannic spine and lingering blueberry flavor. Dense and concentrated for this Cote de Francs property on argilo-calcaire soil.

Rating: Barrel Tasting - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 06/30/06.

Rating: 89-91 - As reviewed by Wine Advocate on 4/06.