2005 Chateau Ormes de Pez Saint Estephe

Worthy of a second glance for the admitted complexity found in its ripe black cherry, graphite and caramel aromas and its initial flavors of ripened fruit, cedar, pencil lead and quiet suggestion of orange rind, the wine falls down just a touch by being drier at its heart than even the typical youthful hardness of St. Estephe would dictate. Time may be on its side, but there are better ideas throughout this Issue.

Bright medium ruby. Black cherry, menthol and fresh herbs on the moderately ripe nose. Offers decent texture, but this medicinal, cool wine has a distinct green streak to its fruit. Finishes slightly dry-edged. Hard to warm to.