CHATEAU LASSEGUE 2003

Yes, I am truly worked up into a frothy lather over Bordeaux. I just recently revisited the Chateau Lassègue St.-Émilion 2003 ($43.98), the debut vintage from Jess Jackson’s Bordeaux endeavor. Say all you want about Jess Jackson, the man knows how to turn out good wine. This gorgeous claret has a ruby/purple hue, with an almost crimson core in the glass. Elegant and fragrant, with red raspberry and red currant aromas springing forward, there are elements of red flowers, cedar, tobacco, cocoa powder and cinnamon intermingling in the complex nose. Across the palate glides silty, soft tannins, mocha, red berry and French Roast coffee. It’s medium- to full-bodied, with a very approachable tone set throughout its lengthy finish. It already has some age, and is ready-to-drink, but could go another 5 years in the cellar. A bit steep in price, it is definitely worth it.