After an early bud-break at the end of March, the growing season was slowed down by a cool, damp spring. The subsequent shoots promised a crop size on a par with the previous year; however with the outbreak of fungal diseases, particularly downy mildew, frequent and careful anti-fungal spraying became the order of the day. July was abnormally cold and damp, though August and September were sunny and dry, ensuring good ripening of the grapes. The picking was therefore done in favourable conditions and could be stretched out according to the ripening in each plot. A good natural concentration in the berries and perfectly healthy bunches, thanks to very hot spells of weather, produced consistently ripe fruit and levels of quality which far exceeded the previous vintages. As the blending approached, the Merlot showed good deep colour with plenty of fatness on the palate. As for the Cabernets, they displayed outstanding tannins, balance, roundness and finesse. Paradoxically, selection remained very severe.
An intense, dark, garnet colour with purple glints.
Moderately aromatic nose at first, showing dominant notes of black fruit (black cherries, blackberries) together with well integrated hints of oak.. Once it has breathed in the glass, the wine displays its aromatic potential and complexity: black current, red fruit jam, leather aroma, floral notes, all showing the great maturity of the grapes.
In the mouth, the wine displays an exceptional roundness, which develops right away. The tannins are silky but powerful, a bit like the ’99. The tannins are ripe and of a velvety texture.
An extremely long, lingering finish, which leaves a very pleasant physical impact.
A wine for the keeping. If one decides to open it now, it is best to decant it.

Owner: Henri Lurton
Director of Operations: Christophe Capdeville
Director of Marketing and Communication: Corinne Conroy
Vineyard Manager: Jean-Charles Nabéra-Sartoulet
Consulting Oenologist: Jacques Boissenot

Yield: 46 hl/ha
Barrel ageing : 18 months in 60% new French oak
Percentage of great wine vs secondary labels : 27,5%