2001 Canon de Brem

Jean Halley purchased this estate from the Jean-Pierre Moueix family in late 2000 and has spent a small fortune investing in the property. This firmly-structured, dense, seriously-endowed blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc exhibits a saturated ruby/purple color along with a firm but promising nose of crushed stones intermixed with flowers, raspberries, and black currants. Medium-bodied and elegant, with good density, a clean finish, and noticeable tannin, it should hit its prime in 1-2 years, and last for 12-15. Jun 2004, www.robertparker.com

(an 80/20 blend of merlot and cabernet franc; this property was recently purchased from the Mouiex family by Jean Halley, the founder of a French supermarket chain) Saturated ruby. Superripe cherry, bitter chocolate and smoky oak on the nose. Sweet and smooth, with oaky bitter chocolate flavor lifted by a mineral pungency. Finishes with sweet tannins and very good length.