Has the chocolate-covered cherry character so true to Cinq Cepages, along with a dusty, meaty, licorice and tar character for great complexity. Minerals, too. Subtle oak texture, fine-grain tannins and very crisp acidity. Aging estimation may be conservative. 18/20

While the 13000-case cuvee of 1999 Cinq Cepages (76% Cabernet Sauvignon 10% Merlot 8% Cabernet Franc 4% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot) is not as prodigious as the 1997 or 1996 it is potentially outstanding. This New World version of a high class St.-Emilion boasts an opaque ruby/purple color in addition to a sweet bouquet of licorice dried herbs tobacco smoke black cherries and cassis. It is medium to full-bodied with a lovely texture admirable complexity and a long finish. The question mark relates to the notion of elevated dry tannin in the finish...