2002 Prieure Lichine

4ème Cru Classé Mid crimson. Light but rather beguiling, sweetly perfumed nose. Mouthfilling fruit. Really rather clever. The balance is just right for this rather lightweight fruit. Delicate, though those tannins are quite gripping. (JR)

Red-ruby. Aromas of plum, coffee and smoked meat. Sweet fruit nicely framed by integrated acidity. Finishes with dusty, firm tannins and lingering notes of menthol, leather and game.

This wine may ultimately be superior to the 2003. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by a sexy concoction of melted licorice, black cherries, and currants intermixed with hints of tobacco, spice box, and earth. With medium body, excellent ripeness, and a pure, concentrated finish, it will provide attractive drinking now and over the next 10-12 years. There have been significant changes made at this well-known estate that now boasts Stephane Derenoncourt as its consultant. The wine remains primarily a blend of nearly equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a tiny dosage of Petit Verdot and even less Cabernet Franc. Yields have been cut significantly to under 35 hectoliters per hectare, and of course much more work is now being done in the vineyard than ever before.