This estate is coming to life again after a long period of mediocrity. The deep ruby/purple-hued 2005 Feytit Clinet is performing brilliantly, offering up notes of chocolate-covered blackberries, licorice, incense, and notions of earth as well as oak. A 1,600-case blend of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, from a 15-acre vineyard situated near Trotanoy, the 2005 is full-bodied and powerful with sweet but substantial tannin, good acidity, and a long finish. It will benefit from 5-6 years of bottle age, and should improve over the following two decades. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.

Aromas of blackberry, earth, vanilla and tobacco follow through to a medium-to-full body, with tobacco and chocolate character and a long finish. Equal to the beautiful 1982. Best after 2010. 1,415 cases made. -JS

A core of dark fruit but rather marked by oak at the tasting. Possible 4-star in time. Drink 2012-2020. (16 points)