The 1970 Trotanoy can be prone to TCA issues, and I suffered a run of tainted bottles until this pristine example served in Bordeaux. One immediately discerns a deep garnet core, while the first sniff is like hearing the thundering of horses in the distance, presaging a spellbinding bouquet of iodine, macerated dark cherries, a hint of eucalyptus and with time, Japanese green tea (the traditional, “stand your spoon it type”). The palate is full-bodied with a velvety smooth texture, powerful and, I think, with more substance than the impressive 1971. The 1970 Trotanoy has broader shoulders, perhaps not quite the same level of elegance but an enormous length on the opulent, almost marmalade-like finish. There is a faint tang of black olives lingering on the aftertaste. This is a stunning Trotanoy…with still some way to go. Tasted June 2011. - Neal Martin