The 2006 Gracia has a smudged red cherry, warm brick and melted tar-scented nose that is holding up well. The palate is fresh and crisp on the entry, showing much more freshness and delineation compared to the 2006 Magrez-Fombrauge, with tobacco and tar infusing the dusky black fruit on the almost Left Bank-like finish. Enjoy this over the next 5-7 years. Tasted April 2016.

Good luck finding this St.-Emilion as there are fewer than 300 cases of the unfined/unfiltered 2006. This 5-acre vineyard averages yields of 15-25 hectoliters per hectare. Usually a blend of 80% Merlot and the rest mostly Cabernet Franc with a small dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2006 from proprietor Michel Gracia exhibits an opaque purple color along with a sweet perfume of crushed rocks, acacia flowers, blueberries, blackberries, smoke espresso roast, and subtle chocolate. Possessing superb concentration, deep, medium to full-bodied flavors, and moderate tannin, it should be at its finest between 2013-2025.