A deep ruby/garnet colour with unctuous tears on the rim. The nose is rich and opulent with black cherry, cassis and violets, though perhaps beginning to close down. The palate is full-bodied with slightly aggressive tannins. Very sinewy, plush and decadent but somehow remaining well-balanced. Less corpulent than on previous occasions but with great grip and persistency on the finish. Its virtue is its poise and nervosity that is lacking in so many other 2003’s. - Neal Martin