Ruby-red. Fresh, primary, nuanced nose combines black fruits, cocoa powder, minerals, flowers and mint. At once broad and penetrating, with lively fruit and mineral flavors and a rather powerful underlying structure. This mounts impressively on the back half, finishing with big, firm, almost cabernet-like tannins and excellent length. All of the Moueix 2003s were being protected by higher-than-normal doses of SO2, so it's possible this wine is even richer than it's showing today.

An early September harvest in this hot year produced a 2003 that has reached full maturity. It offers notes of roasted coffee, melted chocolate, figs and black cherry jam. There are some rustic tannins in the finish, but this expansive, rich Petrus displays far more intensity and complexity than most expected given the difficulties in Pomerol in 2003. It should be consumed over the next 4-6 years.