Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve 1999

Dark ruby-violet in color, the 1999 Georges de Latour demonstrates the benefits of judicious green-harvesting during a difficult vintage. Strongly aromatic, the wine reveals classic Rutherford scents of black-cherry, mineral, green and black peppercorn with anise. The flavors are ripe, yet less opulent than in 1998, reflecting the long cool growing season. Rich in berry , mineral , and mild herb flavors, with a supple, lively texture and very fruit forward, the fine, yet firm tannins provide a solid structure to insure at least a decade of improvement is ahead. A youthful hint of vanilla-oak in the finish will harmonize with the rich fruit in time.