Incredible precision, typicity and citrussy elegance from this ripe and powerful year. Salty minerality and lime notes converge nicely with the Krug-perfume, underlying nuttiness and honey. (RJ)

The 2003 Clos du Mesnil is insanely beautiful. Vivid, resonant and textured in the glass, the 2003 boasts magnificent depth and pure breed. Since I last tasted it a few months ago, the 2003 has begun to shut down, which is probably a great sign for its future and overall longevity. Hints of smoke, slate and dried pear gradually open up in the glass, but the 2003 mostly stands out for its exceptional finesse. (AG) 94+

Clos du Mesnil is often severe and unapproachable on release, needing additional age to show its grandeur. In the heat of 2003, the discipline this walled parcel of limestone brings to chardonnay is still apparent, even as the wine is just that much more accessible. The pale earthen power of the wine, the challenging grip, is completely saturated by gracious, sophisticated flavor, remarkably tight for the vintage, and extremely long.