A distinctive bouquet of violets, soy, pepper, blackberries, cassis, and tree bark gives this 2001 a singular style. This dense ruby/purple-colored blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, and a whopping 14% Petit Verdot exhibits plenty of structure, wonderful sweetness, a closed style, but a rich, textured, persistent character. The unusually large percentage of Petit Verdot gives the wine more structure and less initial charm. This beauty needs some time in the cellar. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2018.

(50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 14% Petit Verdot) Transparent, but still strong, purple-red. Evolving, fruity nose, with integrated oak. Ripe and quite delicate fruit on the palate, with good concentration. Starting to mature. Good freshness and liveliness from the high percentage of Petit Verdot in this wine. Moderate length; very appealing now.