Critics reviews
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - 24/04/2006
About this WINE
Merlot
The most widely planted grape in Bordeaux and a grape that has been on a relentless expansion drive throughout the world in the last decade. Merlot is adaptable to most soils and is relatively simple to cultivate. It is a vigorous naturally high yielding grape that requires savage pruning - over-cropped Merlot-based wines are dilute and bland. It is also vital to pick at optimum ripeness as Merlot can quickly lose its varietal characteristics if harvested overripe.
In St.Emilion and Pomerol it withstands the moist clay rich soils far better than Cabernet grapes, and at it best produces opulently rich, plummy clarets with succulent fruitcake-like nuances. Le Pin, Pétrus and Clinet are examples of hedonistically rich Merlot wines at their very best. It also plays a key supporting role in filling out the middle palate of the Cabernet-dominated wines of the Médoc and Graves.
Merlot is now grown in virtually all wine growing countries and is particularly successful in California, Chile and Northern Italy.
Buying options
Add to wishlist
Description
This vintage is not as promising as hoped based on previous vintages. Licorice, herb, and stewed vegetable-like characteristics make an appearance in this dark plum/garnet-colored effort. Although well-made, medium-bodied, and evolved, with sweet fruit, and a superficial charm, it lacks depth and delineation. Obviously, this vineyard suffered from the vintages heat. Drink the 2003 over the next 7-8 years.
(Robert Parker - www.erobertparker.com - 30-April 2006)
wine at a glance
Delivery and quality guarantee