Back in Ohio for the summer and met a friend for lunch. I brought a
2003 D'Armailhac from my cellar. Haven't had the wine in years so after a quick violent decant we enjoyed a little seared tuna with spring peas and pea tendrils then a lightly smoked and grilled flank steak. the 2003 D'Armailhac was still quite dark purple. Nose of cassis, a little lead pencil and a fair amount of smoke which seems to blow off leaving a bit of oaky vanilla. Fairly concentrated and primary with black plum, anise, currant and plush tannins. The wine is still young but low acidity and soft tannins make we wonder about likfe expectancy. I paid about $30 on release including shipping so I think it's a pretty good QPR.