This looks to be a promising effort, and possibly better than the 2000. The color is a dark plum/ruby, and the wine offers up dusty, earthy notes interwoven with plum, currant, and a hint of prune. Some licorice and new oak also make an appearance. The wine is medium-bodied and ripe, without the rusticity and emaciated feel many previous vintages have exhibited. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2015.

Bright aromas of licorice, berry and flowers. Medium- to full-bodied, with well-integrated, silky tannins and a fresh finish. Best after 2007. 5,165 cases made. -JS