Classic Laetitia, dark, dry, full-bodied and richly extracted. The cherry, persimmon and pomegranate fruit is so forward, it tastes sweet, except that the wine finishes fully dry. Acidity is evident, as are grippy tannins, and the fruit and spice finish lasts a long time. An evident ager. Best after 2013. ——S.H.(4/1/2011)—— 93

Laetita’s Les Galets bottling comes from a single vineyard block. The ’06 is rich, velvety, complex and compelling. Fully dry, it has remarkably deep, tannin-inspired flavors of cherry pie, currants, mocha, licorice, peppercorn and smoky new oak. Just addictive, and should hold well for six years.——S.H.(12/31/2008)—— 94