2003 Chateau du Tertre 5eme Cru Classe, Margaux

(34% cabernet sauvignon, 33% merlot and 33% cabernet franc; 30.1 g/l dry extract; 13.2% alcohol): Dark red with a garnet rim. Very sexy, inviting aromas of ripe red cherry, rose petal, mint, cinnamon and white pepper; this has to be one of the freshest, least overripe noses of all 2003 Bordeaux. Then remarkably vibrant and pure on the palate, with cabernet franc-dominated flavors of strawberry, violet, and cocoa complicated by a delicate white pepper nuance. The tannins are smooth and the finish long and suave. An alluring, supple wine with impeccable balance--and an unbelievable result in the furnace-like conditions of 2003.

This dark ruby/purple-colored, luscious, soft, already complex 2003 offers alluring notes of smoked herbs, black cherry jam, camphor, white chocolate, and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, silky-textured, heady, and impossible to resist, it can be drunk now and over the next 12-14 years.

Good full red. Roasted currant, plum jam and chocolate on the nose, with complicating notes of leather and meat. Sweet on entry, then a bit roasted in the middle; not particularly complex but offers good fruit and balance. Finishes with dusty tannins and good length.

Margaux was not one of the more favored appellations, although some top 2003s were made there. Du Tertre’s fully mature 2003 displays chocolaty, herbal, fig and black currant notes, excellent density, elegance and freshness. However, it needs to be drunk up over the next several years.

Complex mix of aromas: meaty black fruit but also violets, spice and perfume. Very inviting. Soft, velvety tannins, a flash of spicy oak and then well sustained warm fruit on the finish. Very satisfying. (JH)