Palmer 2002

A successful wine for the vintage, this blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot boasts complex notes of menthol, black currants, plums, licorice, and a hint of cappuccino in its stunning aromatics. Dense, medium to full-bodied, with high levels of tannin in a big, full-bodied style (much in the spirit of such classic Bordeaux vintages as 1966, 1986, and 1996), this wine possesses superb purity and serious length, but should be purchased only by those with considerable patience and a good, cold cellar, since it will need plenty of time. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028.

The 2002 Palmer is maturing nicely, the new oak better integrated with further bottle age with ripe blackberry, sandalwood, sous-bois and graphite. Very natural and refined. The palate is tannic and taut on the entry, still with that crisp thread of acidity but I am still finding just a touch of hardness on the finish that needs more persistency.