Frederic Mabileau Bourgueil Racines 2003

Frederic Mabileau Bourgueil Racines 2003: A huge slug of tartrate crystals is the first thing I notice; the next is the fresh, youthful colour. The nose takes a few hours to open up, allowing some confected aromas to blow off, giving way to some fresh, mineral-laced black cherry fruit with a green capsicum twist. Medium bodied, with nice extract, but quite reserved, with firm acidity. Black fruits with a little garden mint. Nicely rounded, rather dry and sappy tannins showing in the finish. Nice length. Overall a rather traditional style. 16.5/20 (6/3/06)