Tasted at the Chateau Palmer vertical in London, the 2000 Chateau Palmer was closed for a number of years, but it appears to be finally opening. Deep in colour, there remains a slight broodiness on the nose, although it loses its inhibitions and develops potent blackberry, strawberry and mint aromas, perhaps just a smudge of camphor. It is unashamedly rich on the entry: intense and vibrant with layers of black cherry and cassis fruit pierced by a fine line of acidity. This millennial tightens everything up towards the, finish whereupon it reverts to something much more classic in style, long and tensile. It does not quite occupy the same class as the 2005 or the imperial 2010, but it certainly has long-term potential. My advice? Give it another 4-5 years in the cellar. Tasted May 2015.

One of the sexiest wines for drinking now and over the next 10-15 years is undoubtedly the 2000 Palmer. A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, the wine has an almost exotic floral nose, soft, undulating tannins, and tremendous opulence and flesh, with a full-bodied mouthfeel, silky tannins, and loads of floral notes intermixed with blue and black fruits as well as hints of smoke and incense in its complex aromatics. This wine is drinking beautifully and should continue to do so for up to two more decades.

This takes time to unwind, but then it explodes with fruit and powerful, yet silky tannins. Perfumed and rich, with berry, cherry and tobacco character. Full-bodied, with super-well-integrated tannins and a reduced, refined palate structure. It's compacted and powerful. Very racy wine. Best after 2010. -JS

Good deep red, finely concentrated young Merlot-y fruit with spice and warmth, a Pomerol Margaux, broad and fleshy with a very good future.