Vigorous swirling however coaxes a superbly detailed if reluctant nose of dried rose petals, kirsch and plenty of spice elements. The medium weight plus flavors are taut, focused, very backward, powerful and punchy and like the nose, blessed with seriously impressive detail and layer after layer of sappy extract and incredible depth.

This is still rather reserved though determined swirling reveals a nose that is exceptionally fine and pure with fantastic aromatic detail and an almost diaphanous transparency of expression that reveals all of the kaleidoscopic La Tâche spice box nose, including anise, clove, plums, high-toned black cherry, crushed red raspberry and more.

The expressive though very cool nose is finally beginning to display the initial hints of maturity with the classic dried rose petal and spice nuances adding both elegance and breadth to the pretty mix of red fruit and plum scents. There is a beguiling mouth feel to the intensely mineral-driven broad-shouldered flavors that are at once powerful but sleek, all wrapped in a muscular and palate staining finish.

This is still exceptionally youthful with wonderfully spicy and highly complex red pinot fruit aromas that are enhanced by subtle nuances of floral notes, damp earth, underbrush and even a hint of game.

This too is very spicy and even more aromatically expressive revealing linear, taut, intense, wonderfully complex, solidly structured flavors that display impressive intense, wonderfully complex, solidly structured flavors that display impressive acid/fruit/tannin balance.

There is fine intensity to the medium-bodied flavors that are really quite fine with beautiful detail, indeed they are chiseled, and this sense of precision continues onto the long finish where a touch of '02 style acidity is in evidence.