2003 Chateau La Vieille Cure

This wine is from the Fronsac appellation, which is located adjacent to Pomerol. 20 years ago it would have been unlikely that you could have found a wine of this quality from one of the so-called Bordeaux satellite appellations. I recall buying wines from Cotes de Bourg and Blaye in the early 80's and they were thin and fruitless. They certainly were inexpensive, but that was the kindest thing you could say.

This wine, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, is a revelation. I think it could hold its own against many prestige (and far more expensive) wines from the Haut-Medoc. This wine's dark color and 14.5% alcohol reflect the heat that descended on France in 2003, but the alcohol is completely hidden by the wine's fruit and structure. The nose, which built complexity as it sat in the glass, displays generous cassis and cedar notes, with a touch of eucalyptus. The flavors are full and cushy with deep fruit and substantial ripe tannins. The finish is long and satisfying. Although the wine provides lots of pleasure now, I would cellar it for several more years to smooth out the tannins.

I bought the wine at the Kansas City World Market located just south of 135th Street on the Missouri side of the state line. The price was $35. Since this wine has been on the market for three years, you may have difficulty locating it in your area. I think you would be completely safe to purchase the 2005 version, which Parker gave a 93 rating.