AJ | Deep black red though fully translucent. Clearly the elder sibling of Roc de Cambes, and every bit as much an outsider as that wine was, this also expresses a broad, open, warm-stone and tobacco pulse of ripeness stripped of all "varietal character" and all pretty primary freshness. Ripe is what you smell, and such fruits as there are are plump, dimpled and raisiny: more figs on the Greek path than rain-quickened blackcurrant. Just ... a different experiece. Powerful, rich, sweet and succulent on the palate; very concentrated too, with lots of fig and chocolate. A wonder to behold, but I think I prefer Roc de Cambes in this vintage and the tannins seem to bring more balance and the aromatics are more diverse and more intricate. At this stage, at any rate; time may rearrange. Drink Dates: 2027 - 2035. 88
SF | Rich ruby with the fiantest hint of amber. Then typical savoury aromatics dominated by autumn leaves, charcuteries and seaweed. Distinctive and memorable. The palate is soft, approachable ,yet not without its appeal, a lyrical spicatto rehearsing a neat symphonic structure, which boasts just as much pure fruit as it does tangible umami elements. A pleasing enigma. The tannins appear both rustic and composed, rather intrusive and perfectly balanced. The pleasing paradox that is Tetre Roteboeuf, and we would not wish it any other way.. Drink Dates: 2028 - 2041. 91