This is a spectacular terroir that has underachieved for years. However, hotshot guru Stephane Derenoncourt is behind the winemaking as of 2002, so everyone is expecting quality to soar. A pre-Derenoncourt wine, the 2000 is the finest Larcis Ducasse produced in many years. Full-bodied and ripe, with intense, herb-tinged black cherry fruit, admirable texture and mid-palate, this elegant, moderately tannic, dark ruby-colored wine is far superior to recent efforts. A certain dusty quality to the tannins may prove troublesome. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2017.

A bright, but austere wine which is relatively light for the vintage. But there are red fruits and fresh flavors which suggest the wine will develop quickly.