An elegant stylish finesse-styled 2001 this 100% Merlot was produced from small yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare and bottled unfined as well as unfiltered. A dark ruby/purple color accompanies a restrained but solid bouquet of blueberries raspberries and smoky oak. Medium-bodied understated and substantially flavored it possesses a nicely textured mid-palate and finish. Interestingly I did not see as much difference between this cuvee and its sibling La Croix de Gay as in other vintages. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.</P>