Chateau Colombier-Monpelou, Pauillac

Definitely harsh, rough tannins. Not sure if it needs age or just flawed.

Not very intense, opened 6 hours before serving, it as still a little closed but opened up in the glass, good acidity, scents and tastes of blackberries, spices, chocolate, toasts. Very pleasant and well rounded, but discrete, not intense.

Traditional Bordeaux, seemed a little too closed for a 12 year old wine, but it gradually opened in the glass, dark red fruit and tobacco scents present, tannins still a little harsh, but acidity is there and body too.

Decanted about half an hour before drinking. An excellent, subtle wine that really develops in the glass. Lots of finesse: smooth, integrated tannins. Feminine qualities: lavender, somewhat floral, soft but not flabby. Medium-bodied. Pairs well with meaty seafood (swordfish, salmon) and shellfish (lobster/scallop "terrine") along with red meat (venison). All around impressive--one of the best wines I've tasted in a while. I don't think it's fading, but it's definitely in a sweet spot right now, so drink up.