Domaine Leroy Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 1996

WA98: This dark-colored wine is stupendous. Its intensely spicy and black cherry-laced nose gives way to a massive, profound, hugely-concentrated, beautifully-extracted, and explosive character. Viscous layers of densely packed blackberries, cassis, and cherries are intermingled with loads of Asian spices and sweet, vanilla-infused oak in this blockbuster's flavor profile. This full-bodied and velvety-textured wine's super-ripe, seductive, and luscious fruit dominate its firm structure, making it appear ready to drink. However, readers wealthy enough to purchase this gem, and patient enough to allow it to evolve, will be treated to a profoundly moving drinking experience. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2012+.

VM92+: Red-ruby color. Highly aromatic nose of black cherry, herbs and licorice. Wonderful sweetness for young Clos Vougeot, and not at all hard. As expressive in the mouth as on the nose. Offers terrific snap and a firm structure; currently hiding considerable power under its fruit. Finishes with firm but ripe tannins. Much easier to taste than the '95 was a year ago