2001 l'Eglise-Clinet, Pomerol

A brilliant effort (one of the vintage‰۪s most substantial wines), proprietor Denis Durantou has turned in a tour de force in 2001. Sadly, there are only 1,500 cases of this 85% Merlot / 15% Cabernet Franc blend (from vines averaging 40 years of age). This beauty boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as a glorious nose of red and black fruits, flowers, sweet oak, and hints of licorice as well as truffles. Opulent, medium to full-bodied, concentrated, tannic, and persistent on the palate (the finish lasts 40 seconds)... (RP)