Château Tertre Roteboeuf 2002

A fabulous 2002. Really rich and hedonistic on the nose but not overdone in terms of extraction and oak. Exceptional. Merlot dominates but there seems to be some Cabernet Franc freshness too. Very intense. (JR)

Good bright ruby-red. Aromas of black raspberry, black cherry, pepper, licorice and Cuban tobacco. Then considerably drier than the 2003 and 2004 and not particularly vibrant today. In a very closed stage. Finishes with substantial tongue-drying tannins.

Very deep garnet with violet highlights. Creamy bouquet with notes of Irish moss and rock candy, rumtopf, almost Tempranillo-like due to sandalwood praline nuances. Creamy, ample palate with pronounced malt notes again, ripe, well-integrated acidity, a medium-weight Tertre—which does not mean it feels light—with a lovely black tea aroma on the finish, plum notes, seemingly eager to please even in its youth.

02 (14.3% alc.): Very deep garnet with violet highlights. Creamy bouquet with Irish moss and rock candy notes, rumtopf; almost reminiscent of a Tempranillo thanks to its sandalwood-like praline hint. Creamy, full palate, again a clear malt note, ripe, integrated acidity, a medium-weight Tertre—which by no means implies this wine should be perceived as light—carrying a splendid black tea aroma and a hint of plum on the finish. Seems inclined to drink well early. 17/20 2007–2018

Medium-bodied, sweet, silky, perfumed bouquet with raspberry seeds, chocolate, and mint. Sweet, silky, fresh, elegant palate with fine fruit, fine tannins, and sweet aromatics. Long, delicate finish. 18/20 2010 - 2025