2005 Cadet Piola

Relatively light crimson. Sweet nose and rather loose texture. Green notes as though this wine is not really trying. A bit mean and watery. (JR)

This St.-Emilion, which was often ruggedly tannic/rustic in its power and virility, has taken on more charm and sweeter tannin. While the 2005 possesses the vintage’s structure, it reveals a lively, fresh feel along with terrific blue and black fruits intermingled with licorice, grilled herbs, and loamy soil notes. Medium to full-bodied and well-endowed, it will handsomely repay 15 or more years of cellaring.

Bright crimson though slightly pale rim. Light and fresh on the nose. Quite delicate aromas but marked acidity. Perhaps picking just slightly later would have produced a fleshier wine? Refreshing lunchtime claret. (JR)