Ormes de Pez 1996

The nose has a little more cohesion and focus than the 1995. Cedar, mint and pencil-shavings on the masculine nose. The palate is structured, conservative but with well-integrated oak and tannin. The texture is a little smoother than previous vintages, more refinement and class. Good length - a classic 1996. (88-89) Tasted again in September 2006, blind at Farr again. A very intense, blackberry, hedgerow, briary nose. Kirsch, liquorice. Full-bodied, concentrated palate. Firm tannins, quite rich and decadent. Blackberry, espresso, dates. Assertive and confident wine. Very fine.

Lively intense crimson. Neat, fully evolved nose with some chewiness on the finish still. There is fruit but no excess of it. Vigorous, slightly minty. A good drink. Drink 2007-15