1993 Ferrand Lartigue

I have written before about this little treasure in St.-Emilion which has a whopping 7.25 acres of vineyards. Eight sparkling stainless steel tanks seem more than adequate to handle the small production of this property that is as well-run as a Medoc first-growth. For example, extensive crop thinning and leaf pulling are practiced at Ferrand-Lartigue, and much like the famed Petrus, no grape is harvested before 11:00 am for fear of dilution because of morning mist on the grapes. This elegant, complex wine offers a dark ruby/purple color, as well as sweet, toasty, smoky aromas coupled with ripe blackcurrant and cherry fruit. Medium-bodied, with excellent purity and ripeness, this stylish, silky-textured wine can be drunk now and over the next 5-7 years.