94 points Wine Spectator: "Gorgeous ripeness and exotic smoke, plum and blackberry flavors melt together in a full-bodied, creamy-textured package. Massive tannins are ripe but should close down the wine for a while, so age a few years or decant before serving. Best from 2005 through 2015." (08/2000) 93 points Robert Parker: "...This full-bodied black beauty offers a terrific bouquet of licorice, blackberry, cassis liqueur, and a smoky, subtle dose of wood in the background. In the mouth, it is enormously endowed, very full-bodied and textured, exceptionally pure, with a creamy mid-palate, silky tannin, and a profound finish. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2018." (10/2000) 93(+?) points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Full ruby-red, brighter than the cuvee classique. Liqueur-like aromas of kirsch, blackcurrant, dark chocolate and exotic wood notes. Sappy, sweet, and port-like on the palate; huge and thick. A wine with near-solid density. Finishes with palate-drenching but sweet tannins... (Jan/Feb '01)