Calon-Segur 1996

Surprisingly, this is showing more maturity on the rim than the 1995 Calon-Segur. Contradicting the preconceived style of the vintage, the bouquet has more femininity than the '95, good lift with freshly rolled tobacco, autumn leaves/November bonfire, a touch of espresso. Moving firmly into secondary aromas with hints of bell pepper. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, very harmonious, a slight softness counterbalancing the smoky, graphite-tinged black dusty fruits. Good length, perhaps just lacking a little grip right on the leafy finish. But a very good wine for the vintage

he 1996 may not be as profound as I had predicted from cask, but it is an exceptional wine. Dark ruby-colored, with a complex nose of dried herbs, Asian spices, and black cherry jam intermixed with cassis, it possesses outstanding purity, and considerable tannin in the finish. This classic, medium to full-bodied, traditionally made wine improves dramatically with airing, suggesting it will have a very long life. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2028.