Bright ruby-red. Lively, classic Conseillante nose features blueberry, blackberry, violet, licorice and spices, along with pepper and menthol nuances from the 15% cabernet franc component. Juicy, cool and vibrant, with lovely definition to the black fruit, mint and bitter chocolate flavors. Finishes fresh and firmly tannic, with a ripe suggestion of dark chocolate. This will need time in bottle but should gain in power with eight to ten years of cellaring.

La Conseillante has been hitting on all cylinders over the last several vintages, and the 2006 may rival both the 2005 and 2000. Made in an atypical broad, fleshy style, it exhibits a dark ruby/purple hue, plenty of structure and tannin, but superb concentration. Usually a Burgundian-styled, elegant effort, the rich, well-textured 2006 is a bigger, more blockbuster example displaying a deep ruby/plum/purple color. It requires 2-4 years of cellaring, and should last for two decades. Bravo!

Attractive berry and mineral character. Full-bodied, with a pretty complement of dark chocolate and berry character. Solid core of fruit and ripe tannins, yet balanced. Very ripe fruit here. Serious for the vintage. Score range: 92-94