2004 Château La Gaffelière, 1er Grand Cru Classé Saint Emilion

Saturated ruby. High-toned, superripe aromas of blackberry, kirsch, cocoa powder and licorice. Sweet and supple on entry, then a bit brutal in the middle, with dark fruit and licorice flavors showing a medicinal austerity. Fresh and intense, but the tannins give the impression of rather vigorous extraction. Stephen Tanzer, Vinous.