Dark ruby-colored, with lavish, high quality toasty new oak intermixed with black raspberry fruit, this open-knit, medium-bodied, complex wine changes quickly in the glass, revealing smoky, mocha-infused notes. Although not massive, it is sexy, charming, and fruity -- in short, a typical La Conseillante. Consume it over the next 10-12 years.This wine has put on considerable weight since it was tasted last year.

A delicious and balanced Pomerol, with tobacco, berry and meaty aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now through 2004. -JS