Vinous - Score: 88 (2000 January)

Deep red-ruby. Aromas of cherry, redcurrant, animal fur, spice and tobacco; much less primary than the '98. Redcurrant and smoke flavors seem a bit more evolved than those of the earlier bottling. Here the dusty tannins are a bit less ripe and there's a hint of greenness on the finish, which also features notes of leather, smoke and tobacco. This wine may well be starting to close down in the bottle.