Lafleur 2003

The exotic, nearly over the top 2003 exhibits a southern Rhone-like characteristic of kirsch liqueur intermixed with raspberries and flowers. Sweet fruit, high levels of glycerin (the alcohol is less than 13.5%), and high but silky tannins have resulted in a broad, expansive, terrific example of Lafleur that should be at its finest between 2008-2025. Along with Petrus, this stunning, full-bodied 2003 is a candidate for the top wine of Pomerol.

Full and dense yet refined and linear. Very racy, with plum, berry and floral character. Lasts for minutes. Superb.

I was surprised by how much new oak this wine exhibited when I tasted it in January as that component is rarely noticeable in Lafleur (approximately 50% new oak is utilized). Full-bodied, deep, and chewy, with notes of raspberries, cherries, licorice, and kirsch liqueur, it is full-bodied, opulent, low in acidity, but more disjointed than it was nine months earlier, which is somewhat perplexing. Nevertheless, I couldn’t help but admire the 2003's concentration, purity, and intensity. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2020+.

At Lafleur, the Merlot was harvested on September 1 and 2, and the Cabernet Franc on September 12 and 13. Surprisingly high alcohol as well as low acidity are found in this terrific Lafleur. It has had its press wine added, and the result is a dense ruby/purple-colored effort revealing aromas of flowers, blueberries, raspberries, mulberries, and cherries. Extraordinary elegance as well as intensity, and a low acid, high pH style with considerable power suggest it will be drinkable at an earlier age than most of its predecessors. I suspect the alcohol level is between 13 - 13.5%, and the pH is somewhere in 3.8 - 4.0 range. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020+