2001 Fleur Cardinale

This is an up and coming property with vineyards sandwiched between those of Valandraud and Rol Valentin. 2001 is the first vintage under the new owner, Dominique Decoster. Yields have been cut drastically, and a draconian selection, lees aging, and bottling with no fining or filtration have been instituted. The result is a dense ruby/purple-colored, elegant effort exhibiting plenty of sweet black currant and cherry fruit along with hints of licorice, new oak, and earth. Medium-bodied and fleshy, it should be consumed over the next 7-8 years.

Medium ruby-red. Sexy aromas of raspberry, cocoa powder and spicy oak. Lush and juicy, with flavors of candied raspberry, cedar and baking spices. Offers very good energy in the mouth. Finishes long, firm and perfumed, with fine-grained tannins and sweet oak notes. At once serious and seductive.