94 2000 Chateau DuCru (Saint Julien) 1/10/15 ($100)
13% alc
Color: Deep black garnet. Slight browning at rim. Beautiful for 14. (3.5) Bouquet: Elegant gray clay and inky cassis are prominent. Intense St Julien character. (3.5) Body: Heavyweight with outstanding, smooth tannins and excellent fruit and acidity. Silky mouthfeel that coats. (3.5) Flavor: Not as pretty as the bouquet with slightly bitter tannins still present. (3.0) Finish: Very long and complex with forestal nuances (wet forest floor) and game. Forceful terroir for St Julien. (3.5)
Overall: Expressive St Julien terroir really makes this classic, even though the smooth, substantial tannins are holding it back a little. Should continue to improve in the next 2-3 years. The finish is particularly long and complex, but also shows some astringency. A forceful St. Julien that almost drinks like a Pauillac (my favorite commune, so I'm not complaining). (17.0)
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