The top-flight 2001 is just a notch below the brilliant 2000. It offers a deep ruby/purple color along with a rich perfume of toast, acacia flowers, gravel, and black currant liqueur. Medium to full-bodied and voluptuous, with viscous flavors of creme de cassis, licorice, chocolate, and smoke, this pure, moderately tannic 2001 can be drunk young given its low acidity and precocious personality. It should age impeccably for a dozen or more years. Proprietor Beatrice Ondet continues to fashion top-flight efforts that merit more interest than they receive. Her 37-acre vineyard is planted with 80% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Franc as well as a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Chauvin has made an impressive 2001. Aromas of sweet licorice, melted tar, and black cherry/currant fruit rise from this full to medium-bodied, pure, rich, vibrant 2001. The wine is concentrated, rich, as well as textured, with copious fruit, fat, and glycerin. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020.

Except for some elevated tannin, everything is well-balanced in this dense ruby/purple-colored St.-Emilion. Aromas of sweet licorice, melted tar, and black cherry/currant fruit rise from this medium-bodied, pure, rich, vibrant 2001. It should drink well for 10-12 years.

“75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, this has a deep ruby, purple colour and intense meaty, tarry aromas. Earthy and dark with underlying blackcurrant fruit and smoke, this shows complexity and evolution and is a definite food wine. Drink up to 2013.”