Tasting Notes
Vinous 97
Good deep red. Aromas of black raspberry, graphite, chocolate, cocoa powder and herbs, plus an earthy tobacco hint of Montecristo No. 2. A wine of great power and energy, just beginning to round into its adult form. Wonderfully savory flavors of dark raspberry and Cuban cigar tobacco, plus a suggestion of honey. Really glistens on the palate, showing an uncommonly suave texture and strong minerality. This wine is at the beginning of a long peak-drinking window; in fact, my sample seemed still to want to tighten up in the bottle. This still-youthful wine finishes with terrific savory grip. I should note that Roumier actually prefers his 1999 Chambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses to this wine!
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2037
Robert Parker 96
This is completely different to the 2000. A much deeper, almost opaque colour in the glass. The nose is very intense with blackberry, cassis, violets and blueberries – intense and engaging. The palate has more glycerin than the 2000 with layers of sensuous black fruits and velvety smooth texture. Its fleshiness belies some serious, firm tannins underpinning this Bonnes-Mares. Puissance as they say in France. Again, I think this will seriously close down: certainly long-term potential and will demand some patience. Check again in 2012. Outstanding, but at the moment, uncompromising. Tasted October 2006.
JancisRobinson.com 18
Extremely deep, purplish crimson. Thick, youthful, concentrated fruit but for the moment extremely unevolved. Broad, ripe but unformed. All packed in there but this needs a lot of time.
Anticipated maturity: 2007-2016
