This medium -to-dark-colored wine (I tasted from a new barrel but the final blend will only contain 30% new oak) has an oak spice, raspberry, and cherry-scented nose that gives way to a medium-bodied, and creamy-textured character. Candied cherries, spicy oak, and floral tones can be found in this well-balanced and delicious wine. Anticipated maturity: now-2004. This wine appeared a little strange to me when taken in the context of the vintage. In general, the vintage offers bright fruit, whereas at Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret, it was less vibrant, fatter perhaps, and ever-so-slightly pasty. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel (205) 980-8802.