The 2001 La Fleur de Bouard (primarily Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc) was aged 20 months in new oak prior to being bottled unfined and unfiltered. It possesses a deep ruby/purple color as well as a rich nose of black fruits intertwined with hints of smoke, licorice, and graphite. Medium to full-bodied, opulent, and attractively proportioned, with well-integrated acidity, tannin, and wood, it should hit its peak in 2-3 years, and should last a decade.