In spite of an attractive dark ruby/purple color, this wine came across as extremely tannic, with a sweet and sour combination of low acidity, high tannin, ripe fruit, and some abrasiveness. It is hard to know which components will win out, but it is usually the tannin, so this may develop into a compact, austere 1997 - atypical in view of the overall personality of the vintage. Am I being too kind? Anticipated maturity: 2002-2011.(No tasting note was provided in Issue 128. We have instead included the text of the tasting note from Issue 116)

Lovely smoky red, with cherry and chocolate aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied. Medium, slightly austere tannins. Best after 2000. -JS