Clos l'Eglise 2004

Made in a very forward style, the 2004 Clos l’Eglise offers sweet mocha-infused black raspberry and chocolate cherry-like fruit in its intense aromatics. In the mouth, it is pure silk, medium-bodied, and beautifully concentrated with no hard edges. Filled with sensual fruit, glycerin, and body, this is a delicious, food and consumer-friendly, complex Pomerol that should drink beautifully for 12-14 years.

Plummy, with lots of fruit and hints of good oak. Full-bodied, with green olive and fruit character. Full and velvety. Long and caressing.

A richer, more savory effort than the 2003, the 2004 exhibits a dark ruby/purple color along with attractive mocha, espresso, plum, caramel, sweet cherry, and currant characteristics. Medium to full-bodied with decent acidity, and a long, pure, elegant finish, it should drink well for 12-15 years.

Since the acquisition of this estate in 1987 by the Garcin family, Clos l’Eglise has been consistently one of the top half dozen or so Pomerols, and once again, they have come through magnificently in 2004. A brilliant blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2004 boasts a deep plum/ruby color in addition to a gorgeous perfume of melted caramel, coffee, black cherries, figs, and plums. Full-bodied, rich, and textured, it is atypical in that it does not resemble the more linear, tarter style of most 2004s. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2016.