The 2009 is a strong effort from this American-owned property situated on the lower hillsides of St.-Emilion where the soils are a mixture of gravel, clay and decomposed limestone. A dense purple color is followed by copious black fruit aromas (plums, blackberries and figs) intermixed with hints of graphite, chocolate and wood smoke. Full-bodied, substantial and large-scaled with intense fruit, terrific purity and a modern style, this brawny St.-Emilion will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring and last for 20-25 years.