This was the first vintage in the vertical tasting of La Chapelle that is beginning to reveal considerable secondary nuances and color development. Opaque purple/garnet with a touch of amber at the edge, this sexy, rich effort is more pleasurable aromatically than on the palate. However, it possesses multiple dimensions as well as abundant aromas of cedar, damp forest, spice box, and Asian spices. The soaring bouquet suggested the wine was more mature in flavor than it turned out to be. The wine is dense, with a firm, noticeably tannic edge, full body, and concentrated, powerful flavors. It is a classy, understated La Chapelle that requires another 5-6 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025