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!

The 2005 Clos l’Eglise gives the brilliant 2001, 2000, and1998 a run for their money. Time will tell if it eventually eclipses those three sensational efforts. A huge, sweet nose of creme brulee intermixed with black cherry liqueur, blackberries, tar, caramel, and mocha/coffee soars from the glass of this blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Opulence, superb intensity, abundant quantities of sweet toasty oak, a full-bodied richness, and excellent purity as well as depth suggest it will age effortlessly for over two decades. This is a brilliant Pomerol from proprietor Helene Garcin and her consulting winemaker, Dr. Alain Raynaud.

Intense aromas of tar, blackberry and wet earth, with just a hint of tobacco and flowers. Full-bodied, chewy and long. Extracted, yet turns caressing and velvety in texture. Broad-shouldered and muscular for this estate. This is better than the 2000.