Réserve du Chateau Mansenoble Corbières 1998

Réserve du Chateau Mansenoble Corbières 1998: A good depth of colour here, with a red-black core and a maturing rim. Brawny, brambly black fruits on the nose with a meaty character at first, with a subtle smoky oak background. With air it takes on a more refined, mature fruit aroma with a surprisingly claretty persona. A big, sweetly textured presence on the palate, with plenty of dark fruits and somewhat rustic, peppery oak-derived tannins intermingled with firm acidity. Would benefit from time in a decanter. Needs three or four years in the cellar to show its best. 17+/20 (26/7/04)