Les Gravières 2005

This serious St.-Emilion’s structure and tannin would suggest it contains some Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc, but it is, in fact, 100% Merlot. Surprisingly austere considering its Merlot content, it possesses copious quantities of sweet currant and cherry fruit interwoven with notions of smoke, licorice, underbrush, and pain grille. Full-bodied, dense, firm, and backward, it will require patience. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025

Denis Barraud, an up-and-coming St.-Emilion star, fashions this garagiste offering from 100% Merlot. It possesses much more structure than expected given the mono-cepage utilized. Fresh, lively, black cherry, forest floor, spice box, and earth notes are present in this dense ruby/purple-colored effort. Full body, good richness, and moderately firm tannin will provide 15-20 years of longevity. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2022+.

With a production of just under 1,700 cases, this dense ruby/purple-colored, 100% Merlot comes from proprietor Denis Barraud, one of St.-Emilion’s rising stars. It is a wine of huge intensity, purity, richness, balance, and texture, but is not yet revealing much complexity. It appears to have the potential for 15+ years of longevity.