2003 Quinault l'Enclos

This 48+-acre vineyard is owned by Dr. Alain Raynaud, who has been one of the spiritual and qualitative leaders of the quality revolution that has taken place in Pomerol and St.-Emilion. Situated within the Libourne city limits, this vineyard possesses some of the oldest vines (50 years) of St.-Emilion. Made from a blend of 87% Merlot and the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, the light-styled 2003 is soft and forward, yet possesses this property’s hallmark elegance. Exhibiting a deep ruby/purple hue along with a sweet nose of blueberries, licorice, and flowers, it is all about finesse, balance, and purity. While it does not display the concentration of the finest vintages to date, 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2004, it is ideal for drinking now and over the next 12-14 years.

Bright ruby-red. Sexy red berries, cedar, iron and baking spices on the nose. Sweet, supple and fat but not heavy. The liqueur-like redcurrant, tobacco and iron flavors are nicely framed by healthy acidity. A rather suave wine with lovely vinosity, pliant tannins and very good length.

Extremely deep crimson. Rather dull on the nose. Very sweet, then tough on the palate. Certainly not fine. A little hollow on the mid palate. (JR)