This 1999 is deep ruby/purple-colored, with a striking perfume of black cherries, truffles, cedar, and vanilla. This layered, opulently-textured wine displays extraordinary purity, elegance, and finesse. It is a classic Bordeaux with superb palate presence that builds incrementally on the palate. The finish is long, with plenty of sweet tannin. Very impressive! Three thousand cases of the 1999 were made from a blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Last year it seemed to reveal an element of dilution, but as always, the truth is in the bottle, and presently there is no evidence of lightness or liquidity. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2018.