Tasted at the Chateau Giscours vertical, the 2003 Chateau Giscours is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Considering the vintage, the aromatics have retained a respectable degree of freshness, although it is not as nuanced or as complex as the previous two vintages. It offers redcurrant, leather and a touch of dark chocolate, perhaps reflecting the growing season more than the terroir. The palate is medium-bodied with supple ripe tannin. This is a little lactic on the mouth, smooth if not complex, but there is no flabbiness marking the finish and it offers decent length. Drink it over the next 5-8 years. Tasted June 2015.

Aromas of blackberry, black olives and licorice. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Refined and nicely done. Best after 2010. 21,665 cases made. -JS

Light ruby in color, smoke, truffle, earth, cigar box, fennel and jammy black cherry scents create the complex aromatics. Medium bodied, silky, sexy and filled with black raspberry and spice. This is not a wine that requires more age. I’d drink this over the next 6 to 9 years.