2002 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou

Mid dark ruby. Gravely/warm bricky nose. More supple on the palate than many and quite nicely balanced- albeit with the elevated acidity that characterises this vintage. Reminds me rather of Haut-Bailly though it has more grip. (JR)

Very attractive development. Juicy. More advanced than most. Readable and easy. Great balance. (JR)

It is good to see this wine showing much better from bottle than it did from barrel, where it had a certain leanness and herbaceousness. There is still a hint of dried herbs in the classy nose of red and black currants, cedar wood, and spice box. The wine has a deep ruby/purple-tinged color, excellent density, and medium body in an elegant style with a hint of road tar and sweet fruit. It should drink well young but age nicely for 12-15 years. Make no mistake about it, it has nowhere near the size, dimension, power, and intensity of the 2003. Of course, this estate is now being run by Bruno Borie, the eldest son of the late Jean-Eugene Borie. He replaced his younger brother, Xavier Borie, who remains fully responsible for Grand-Puy-Lacoste and Haut-Batailley.