This is the central part of the cru

Because the underlying tannins seem phenolically mature

too the style is quite restrained for a wine that in the past has played more on textural richness and volume

obvious earth and smoked game influences

it is fresh and elegant and from a cooler (more Atlantic) vintage with more rain than the average and a relatively late harvest between September 28th and October 12th

Giscours Vintage:2009 This is the central partLighter and more classic in style, the 2004 is the opposite end of the spectrum from 2003. The nose is more floral with a hint of iris, the palate juicy but light bodied, the tannins sandy and slightly chewy on the finish. It's a simpler wine but balanced and I would say best drunk now.