2003 Claret

Remarkably rich, supple and harmonious, with a generous array of spicy currant, blackberry, exotic spice and hazelnut with hints of mocha and chocolate. For all its richness and complexity, this is a delightful wine to drink both now and through the next decade. Best from 2006 through 2013.

96 Points — The Wine Spectator - 2/05

The top wine here is the classic 2003 Claret, a gorgeously proportioned, opaque purple-colored effort boasting a big, sweet nose of smoky meats, creme de cassis, coffee, and dark plums. Dense and opulent, with superb concentration, full body, high glycerin, decent acidity, and ripe tannin, this a superb mouthful of wine that can be approached now or cellared for 12-15 years.

96 Points —Robert Parker, Jr., The Wine Advocate - 12/07

Deep ruby. Sexy aromas of blackcurrant, graphite and licorice. Dense, sweet and super concentrated, with terrific intensity of briary black raspberry flavors. Powerful, long, brooding wine, finishing with tooth coating tannins. This big boy begs to be served with a piece of meat. Not as lush at this stage as the wonderful 2002, but this may live longer.

94+ Points —Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar