Certan-Marzelle, Christian Moueix's garage operation, is a 1,000 case, 100% Merlot produced from a plot of vines carved out of the original vineyard, Certan-Giraud. The old vine production is made separately, and sold under the name Hosanna. The 2001 Certan-Marzelle is performing even better out of bottle than it did from cask. It exhibits a Le Pin-like exotic opulence and headiness in its succulent, upfront, formidable display of plum, black cherry liqueur, truffle, toffee, mocha, chocolate, and espresso characteristics. This low acid, plump, fleshy, fat effort will not make old bones, but for drinking over the next decade, it is about as sexy a wine as readers are likely to find.

A solid Pomerol with plum, berry and light vanilla character. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh and caressing finish. Much better than from barrel. Lovely. Best after 2007. 915 cases made.