Deep ruby at the core and still quite youthful in color for a 15 year old Bordeaux. On the nose there is a very complex array of aromas: black cherry, orange peel, Szechwan pepper, mint, black tea, cedar and crushed rock. This is really in a pretty spot right now as the tannins are super soft and refined, but there is still a fresh and lively balance of acidity. This is a pretty, elegant and incredible value in aged Bordeaux that can be drunk any night of the week. The finish is long and harmonious. Drink now and over the next 5-8 years.

This 16-year old Fronsac is opaque crimson in the glass with rim variation reflecting its age. It requires a solid decant, but once its open, it’s old-school Bordeaux in all its glory: leather, pipe tobacco and cloves upfront precede an onset of red cherries, plums and dried blood orange. There is a pronounced minerality here, reminiscent of herb-laden dry earth. This 2002 has a velvety mouthfeel once on the palate, and it is picture-perfect medium-bodied. The tannins are soft and the acidity keeps this wine lively and zesty on the palate, carrying it through a savory and elegant finish that clocks in at just about 60 seconds on the dot (yes, I timed it - sorry, I am a wine geek and I could not help myself…). This will prove to be very versatile with food and should cover a wide range of Western cuisine.