Dark, almost black from the core straight to the rim. Aromas of black and purple fruit mix with notes of pencil lead, tobacco leaf, crushed rocks and just a hint of baking spice. The tannins are nicely integrated at this point, supporting the fruit and offering structure through a long finish. A vibrant core of minerality keeps the wine lively, and unlike some St. Emilions, this is not all fruit on the palate, with racy acidity keeping the wine from the over-the-top style you see too often in this appellation. An absolute steal of a wine from an epic vintage, this is drinking well now, and will continue to impress for another 10-15 years at least.