2001 Gracia

Aromatically, this 2001 merits a score in the mid-nineties, but the flavors do not quite match the spectacular olfactory fireworks. The perfectionist architect turned winemaker, Michel Gracia, does everything right at his tiny (less than five acres) vineyard. Yields were 19 hectoliters per hectare for this blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. This brilliant effort boasts a dark ruby/purple color in addition to an explosive bouquet of raspberry liqueur, crushed stones, white flowers, and other heavenly delights. The wine hits the palate with plenty of fruit, body, and richness. Pure, dense, medium-bodied, with moderate tannin in the finish, if it continues to fill out and live up to its astonishing aromatics, this will be a blockbuster. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2014.

Deep red. Explosive, superripe aromas of red berries, truffle and smoked meat. Lush, fat and full-blown, with flavors of plum, truffle and game. Finishes firmly tannic and long. As fleshy as this is, it also has life in the middle palate.

Thick, sweet. Chewy caricature of a wine. (JR)