I had intended to grab a bottle of 2003 Grand Puy Lacoste but I could not pry the wooden case open using only my bare hands - not for want of trying - so I grabbed this Haut Medoc instead. I am a bugger for trying stuff as soon as I can. I like to form my own opinion of them as young wines. It is costly and most likely foolish but sometimes someone has to take one for the team. The last Sociando I had recently was the ‘85 which at twenty years is still drinking very well.

Aromas of blackberry/raspberry, mineral, flowers, aniseed and toasty pencilly oak. Nice smelling wine. On the palate flavours of blackberry/raspberry, cedar, pencil and a handful of dried herbs. Fine but firm strong tannins and quite fresh and lively. Linear palate - no flush of fruit or fatness. Strong finish. This should turn out to be a beauty.

Rated : 93+ Points
Tasted : Aug06
Alcohol : 13%
Closure : Cork
Drink : 2013 - 2023+