2000 Lusseau

There is no need to defer gratification with this fruity, suave, forward wine. Dark plum/ruby-colored, the 2000 (a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc) is rich and dense, with a saturated ruby/purple color and a knock-out nose of black cherry liqueur intertwined with cedar, smoke, earth, and toasty wood. Layered and pure, this lush, savory wine is medium to full-bodied as well as seamless. Anticipated maturity: Now-2011.