du Tertre, Margaux 2003
in Original Wooden case
93 points Decanter
At 33% Cabernet Franc, this is atypical of the Left Bank but not for du Tertre, which is blessed with high-quality, old Cab Franc vines. This is drinking beautifully: supple, spicy and perfumed. 92 points James Suckling This is very new world in the nose with loads of ripe, raisiny, and spicy fruit. Full bodied, with a round and chewy finish. Very extracted, but I think it will come around very well in the end. (3/2011)
92 points Vinous
Dark red with a garnet rim. Very sexy, inviting aromas of ripe red cherry, rose petal, mint, cinnamon and white pepper; this has to be one of the freshest, least overripe noses of all 2003 Bordeaux. Then remarkably vibrant and pure on the palate, with cabernet franc-dominated flavors of strawberry, violet, and cocoa complicated by a delicate white pepper nuance. The tannins are smooth and the finish long and suave. An alluring, supple wine with impeccable balance--and an unbelievable result in the furnace-like conditions of 2003. (ID) (1/2012)