La Couspaude's 1996 has turned out well. This wine made from 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc (3000 cases) is given 100% new oak malolactic fermentation. Following malolactic fermentation 25% of the new oak is replaced with additional new oak barrels thus that portion of the cuvee is entitled to the so-called "200% new oak elevage." This is a richly fruity sexy medium-bodied surprisingly soft and fragrant wine. Its open-knit aromatics consisting of pain grille cherry liqueur smoke and black currants are followed buy a luscious soft lightly tannic wine. It is destined to be drunk during its first 10-12 years of life.