The special cuvee Le Bourg which comes from a tiny parcel is crop-thinned and aged in 100% new French oak. The wine is more backward and the oak is jarring as well as intrusive at present. However with time in barrel the oak should become better integrated. My instincts suggest the regular cuvee is just as good and it sells at a much lower price. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. Now owned by the dynamic proprietor Silvio Denz also the owner of Lalique crystal and Chateau Faugeres this small estate in Lalande de Pomerol is an up-and-coming star. I liked the basic cuvee as much as their special reserve selection Le Bourg. 88-90+

This has slightly ambitious toast with ample spice and anise notes though there's good plum compote and cherry sauce notes behind. Still primal with the wood holding sway on the finish but this should put on enough weight to find balance.-J.M.