La Lagune 2006

Having just had the 2005 La Lagune, which I think is the greatest La Lagune I have ever tasted, the 2006 certainly loses some prestige in comparison, but this is an outstanding wine and further evidence of just how strong this estate's wines have become. Sweet plum and red and black currant fruit, intermixed with notes of resiny pine forest and forest floor as well as a hint of barrique, are followed by a wine with gorgeous depth, an attractive, medium-bodied texture, a fresh, poised personality, and a moderately long finish. This is another beauty, not weighty, but pure, savory, and capable of lasting 15 or more years, although it is accessible already.

The 2006 Château La Lagune showed marked variation between bottles. One felt a little fatigued on the nose, but another was more attractive with Hoisin and white pepper scents filtering through the black fruit. The palate feels a little pinched, but with continued bottle age I can see this developing more depth and complexity, demonstrating pleasing composure on the finish.

Dark purplish crimson. Medium weight with slight oak influence on the palate. Very slightly raw notes but good lift and zest. Very juicy. Just not very complex. Confident. Dry tannins but just about in balance. Should be fine in the long run for a zippy easy drink.

Red-ruby. Sexy aromas of dark plum, chocolate, molten chocolate and smoky oak. Full, concentrated and sweet in the mouth, with ripe flavors of currant, plum and smoke. Thanks to the wine's very good stuffing, the broad, sweet tannins come across as smooth today. Finishes with very good aromatic persistence. Quite harmonious already.