Deep, fullish ruby red color, tinges of purple.  Rich, overt nose: still quite oaky, cassis, green peppercorn, mint, tabac blond.  Of full weight and body, quite structured.  A phenolic density texturally.  The extraction is intense but in balance.  Sophisticated tannins.  Very good grip.  All the raw materials are here for a fine wine.  The nose is still a little austere but now at age twelve this Haut-Médoc is starting to round into form.  For a while now we were not entirely sure the Sociondo Mallet ’00 was going to get there.  We are now convinced; this has a bright, long-lived future.  Very good for now and shaping up to be a fine bottle of wine.  Now – 2025.