Notes of dried herbs and smoky oak, intermixed with currants and licorice comprise this straightforward, medium-bodied, soft Medoc. It is a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot. Bernard Magrez and his brilliant oenologist, Michel Rolland, did not make this 1999, but they were responsible for its bottling. Anticipated maturity: now-2010.

Lovely, focused aromas of blackberry and mineral, with hints of toasted oak. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. Excellent buy. Best after 2003. 15,830 cases made.