2007 La Tour Carnet

Bright red-ruby. Black cherry, violet, licorice, menthol and mint on the somewhat green nose. Then almost surprisingly sweet and firm in the mouth, with fresh bitter cherry and licorice flavors given cut by lively acidity. Finishes with firm spine. No shortage of personality here-but I'd give this a couple years in the cellar.

A sleeper of the vintage, Bernard Magrez’s outpost in the southern Medoc has produced a blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Earthy, tarry, truffle-like notes intermixed with black currant and spice box aromas jump from the glass of this medium-bodied, seriously endowed 2007. It possesses silky tannins as well as admirable purity and depth. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.

Restrained and quite taut. Finish is fresh but tannins have a pretty firm grip and I fear they may outlast the fruit. (JH)