The 1981 is reminiscent of its elder from 1979 by its body and its texture. It is truly extraordinary, and in no way suffers from comparison with other vintages as fabulous as 1982, 1983 or 1986, although it has neither the richness nor the massive character. Still sporting a very dark purple ruby, it releases aromas of very ripe cassis, vanilla and spicy oak and violets. The medium-bodied palate is concentrated, tannic and extremely persistent. This wine is just beginning to open up and evolve.