772 | Wine | 91 or higher, 2001, 1.5 L

"I prefer the 2001 Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale Oro with the gold label, however, very elegant in its aromas and flavors of cranberries and raspberries, tobacco, and violets, vigorous and sustained on the mid-palate and finish and with tasty, textured tannins on the close."

"The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is one of Bo Barrett’s finest efforts. While tightly knit, 24 hours of aeration reveals its upside potential. Dense ruby/purple with a nose of crushed rocks intermixed with creme de cassis and a hint of licorice, this full-bodied, pure, deep offering will be at its peak between 2010-2025. It is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc that came in at 14.1% alcohol."

"The 2001 Yquem reveals a hint of green in its light gold color. While somewhat reticent aromatically, with airing, it offers up honeyed tropical fruit, orange marmalade, pineapple, sweet creme brulee, and buttered nut-like scents. In the mouth, it is full-bodied with gorgeously refreshing acidity as well as massive concentration and unctuosity. Everything is uplifted and given laser-like focus by refreshing acidity. This large-scaled, youthful Yquem appears set to take its place among the most legendary vintages of the past, and will age effortlessly for 75+ years." Reviewed by Robert Parker.

"Rich, elegant, and nuanced, this dense ruby/purple wine offers a nose of creme de cassis, incense, licorice, chocolate, and spice box. It is full-bodied, opulently styled with plenty of tannin, but the structural aspects of the wine are well-concealed by its intensity and overall richness." Reviewed by Robert Parker.

"Deep red. A complex, heady bouquet of dried red berries, sandalwood, rose oil, black tea and licorice pastille. Smooth, focused and gently sweet cherry and raspberry flavors coat the palate, with gentle but integrated tannins providing shape. This silky, seamless wine finishes with a strong echo of candied flowers, spices and minerals."

"The impeccably made 2001 Dominus boasts a dense plum/purple color in addition to a fragrant, promising perfume of cocoa, cedar, coffee, roasted herbs, and copious quantities of black fruits.... Rich and medium to full-bodied, with sweet but noticeable tannin, a layered mid-palate, and a long finish with obvious tannin, it will require 3-4 years of cellaring. It should last for two decades." Reviewed by Robert Parker, Dec 2003.