It started with a slight whiff of sewage, which was fixed with a good decanting. Very smooth, classic Bordeaux, but not great complexity or a long finish. Is it worth thirty bucks? I have a soft spot for Bordeaux, so I think so. A very pleasant wine.
This is a very nice Bordeaux a la Szabo's review. I don't sense any smokiness or much earthiness on the nose, so in that sense it's not very strong. Instead the nose is fruity. The palate, however, is typical Bordeaux: earthy, meaty, and just enough dark cherry intensity with a good finish. $25 for a six to seven year old Bordeaux that is quite typical, is a great value. Tasted February 2012.