12.5% ABV. Filled very to shoulder, cork intact. Medium garnet core, orange towards the rim. Dark fruit, plum, leather, tobacco, some cedar, sous-bois, some milk chocolate, light espresso, spices, and light balsamic notes, with medium-level acidity, fine tannin, and very good length. Medium-bodied, and smoothly textured. I initially though the wine had reached the end of its drinking window, but it fleshed out with aeration and showed best after three hours in a small decanter. Still, I would drink now and over the next three to five years, with careful aeration.

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This wine is still bound up by its high tannin content. It reveals a dark garnet/ruby color with no amber at the edge. The nose primarily offers minerals, earth, and smoke, with black plum and cassis fruit in the background. On the attack, the wine is rich, medium-bodied, and elegant, with lofty tannin in the finish. Although approachable, it remains youthful and vibrant. Anticipated maturity: 1999-2015. Last tasted 12/97

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