It was not included in my February report on the bottled 2006s but the 2006 Les Asteries which I rated 93+ is a backward mineral-laced effort displaying considerable austerity. However it is packed and stacked in the mouth. This is a 2006 that has completely closed down but it is oozing with potential. I do not think it will ever achieve the greatness of the 2008 but it is a noteworthy success for the vintage. Cellar it for 3-4 years and drink it over the following 15.

Offers raspberry sweet licorice and fresh tarragon on the nose. Full-bodied with refined tannins and a lovely mouthfeel and texture. Goes long and far on the palate. Very well-made for the vintage. A beauty. Best after 2012. -JS