From another of the small, well-run properties of proprietor Denis Barraud, the 2005 Lynsolence delivers beautiful plum, black cherry and cassis fruit. Some licorice, underbrush and incense are also present in this complex, medium to full-bodied wine, which has terrific purity, length and overall balance. This wine is just starting to be drinkable and should continue to hold nicely for another 10-12 years.

This stunning, 100% Merlot was fashioned from extremely low yields. It received a full Burgundian treatment of malolactic in barrel, aging on its lees, and the experimental racking system of rotation of the barrels on the Oxoline system (a barrel racking system on wheels where the barrels can be turned without opening, thus in effect doing a batonnage of the lees without any exposure to air). The deep blue/purple-colored 2005 Lynsolence boasts a bouquet of blueberries, graphite, acacia flowers, and wet steel. The wine is full-bodied with exceptionally high glycerin levels, huge tannin, and good acidity. The oak is relatively obscured by high extract and glycerin, and this powerful, muscular, large-scaled effort requires 5-7 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025+.