Ma Verite is another estate in Bernard Magrez’s Cuvee d’Exception program that is marketed with assistance from the well-known French actor, Gerard Depardieu. The dense ruby/purple-tinged, medium-bodied, structured, muscular, tannic 2003, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, exhibits classic notes of creme de cassis interwoven with smoked herbs, cedar wood, and spice. This finely tuned cuvee will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring, and should last for 10-15 years.

From a small five-acre vineyard owned by actor Gerard Depardieu. The fruit may be from superripe 2003 grapes, but there is a some restraint here, keeping the juicy opulence in balance with the freshness, excellent tannic structure and the open, lively aftertaste.——R.V.(6/1/2008)—— 89