La Couspaude's 1996 has turned out well. This wine, made from 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc (3,000 cases), is given 100% new oak malolactic fermentation. Following malolactic fermentation, 25% of the new oak is replaced with additional new oak barrels, thus that portion of the cuvee is entitled to the so-called "200% new oak elevage." This is a richly fruity, sexy, medium-bodied, surprisingly soft and fragrant wine. Its open-knit aromatics consisting of pain grille, cherry liqueur, smoke, and black currants are followed buy a luscious, soft, lightly tannic wine. It is destined to be drunk during its first 10-12 years of life. - Robert Parker 1999 -