For a Saint-Estèphe this is surprisingly supple at this stage. The density is all in the exotic fruit, while the tannins are more of a background. That suggests this is a wine that will develop relatively fast, but it is going to give great pleasure along the way.
This wine is black. Super aromas of licorice and tar, then violets. Full-bodied, with sleek and racy tannins. Very long finish. Best Gruaud ever? Score range: 95-100
A balanced and harmonious red, with berry, mineral and cherry character. Full- to medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a lovely silky finish. Score range: 89-91
Complex, subtle aromas of crushed berry, plum and cherry. Full-bodied, with thick and silky tannins and a long, ripe fruit finish. Very serious indeed. Not the 1998 La Mondotte, but close enough. Almost 95-100. Score range: 92-94