2000 Chateau L’Eglise-Clinet, Pomerol 12x750ml

Vinous 94

Full ruby-red. Sweet, superripe aromas of dark fruits, game, chocolate and beefsteak tomato. Offers a near-exotic sweetness in the mouth, which is accentuated by mocha and woodsmoke notes, yet manages to maintain its balance thanks to a healthy pH of 3.7 and huge but thoroughly ripe tannins (the IPT was 86!). This has the creamy intensity brought by small berries. Since 1997, Durantou has been using only natural manure as fertilizer, and the result has been somewhat lower pH levels, which have given his wine more energy. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/05/2003]

Robert Parker 96

Tasted single blind at FINE magazine’s vertical in Dusseldorf. This is relatively broody compared to other vintages: dark fruits, blackberry, a touch of potter’s wheel and cedar. Well defined although not a powerful nose. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly hard tannins, good weight though, real backbone here with a hint of vanilla pod towards the powerful minerally, briary finish. Exquisite poise, ambitious yet remaining composed, but ferociously backward at the moment. Tasted February 2011. [Neal Martin, 02/01/2011]

JancisRobinson.com 19.5

Slightly jammy nose. Reticent. Smoky, charred edge. Hint of nutmeg. Very shiny purple. Very opulent. Ready, yet refreshing finish and very, very long. Long and toasty. Caresses the palate, yet with tannins underneath. Quite dry tannins. Coats the glass. Very, very impressive. Not classic, but exceptionally good. Very, very modern. A real sore-throat wine! Very, very long. [10/16/2003]

Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016