A sleeper of the vintage as well as the finest offering I have tasted from this estate, this 2003 reveals a 1990-like opulence and ripe, heady character with low acidity, a sweet mid-palate, abundant fruit, and a broad, intoxicating finish. Let’s hope that an excessive fining and filtration prior to bottling does not rob it of character or texture. It should drink well for 7-10 years.

While nowhere near the quality of vintages since 2009, the 2003 Sansonnet is a solidly made effort that remains intact albeit somewhat simple and monolithic. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.

Loads of crushed berries and hints of wild currant. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long, caressing finish. Jammy, yet soft and fresh. Yummy wine. Hard not to drink now. Best after 2007. 1,380 cases made. -JS