These notes, to be read as background to my tasting notes, are generally more specific observations than those in my vintage overview in wine news.
Médoc
Cabernet Sauvignon came into its own in 2002, but the increasing number of Médoc properties with Petit Verdot planted were extremely pleased with the quality, and ripeness, of fruit from this variety. Other proprietors reported delight at unusually ripe and aromatic Cabernet Franc on this side of the Gironde too. (Merlots, which had to be picked much earlier, sometimes because of disease problems, were less glorious.)
The winter preceding the growing season was...