2001 Clos St Julien

The dark ruby/purple-colored 2001 displays an attractive bouquet of crushed minerals, black currants, licorice, and tobacco smoke. This dense, medium to full-bodied, concentrated sleeper of the vintage possesses a seamlessness as well as beautiful integration of all its component parts. This may be the finest offering I have tasted from this estate. The tiny vineyard, situated behind Chateau Soutard and planted on pure limestone, is equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Malolactic takes place in new oak, and the wine is aged 18 months prior to bottling. It should hit its prime in 2-3 years, and last for 12-15. Impressive.