1993 Soutard

I tasted impressive barrel samples of Soutard's 1993. This estate, which tends to march to the beat of a different drummer when it comes to bottling (later than most) and selling (much is sold directly to consumers rather than through a negociant), has fashioned a full-bodied, concentrated, ripe 1993 with surprising suppleness, good underlying structure, and moderate tannin. It offers plenty of juicy Merlot fruit and a jammy personality. More tannin and delineation should emerge with age. This big, beefy, mouthfilling wine appears to be an excellent example of the vintage; it is capable of 10-15 years of cellaring.