Bordeaux wines in the Flickinger Fine Wines inventory http://www.flickingerwines.com/wineregions/bordeaux.asp WA 89 (6/2004):A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2001 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color to the rim as well as a sumptuous bouquet of spice box, licorice, black currants, and loamy, earthy characteristics. Made in a suave, savory style, with medium body, sweet tannin, ripe fruit, and loads of balance as well as elegance, this beauty will drink well for 10+ years. It is a sleeper of the vintage. This large estate is owned by Stephan von Neipperg, who hired guru winemaking consultant Stephane Derenoncourt to make the wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDAiguilhe.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChAngelus.aspMB *** (11/1986): At peak in the mid-1970s.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLAngelus.aspWS 94 (11/1998): I have always loved this wine. It's just so flashy and showy, with everything up front. Incredibly rich and fruity, with chocolate and spice undertones. Full-bodied and extremely well concentrated, with big, velvety tannins and a long aftertaste of fruit and chocolaty vanilla._x000D__x000D_WA 91 (6/1993): The 1988 is a rich, almost lusty St.-Emilion, with a full-throttle bouquet of licorice, spicy new oak, cassis, olives, and minerals. Full-bodied, deep, and concentrated, it offers excellent extract, and a long, heady, moderately tannic finish. For the vintage, it is surprisingly ripe and sweet. Anticipated maturity: Now-2006._x000D_http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLAngelus.aspWA 95 (2/1998): A superb effort in this vintage, Angelus's opaque purple-colored 1995 is a massive, powerful, rich offering with plenty of ripe, sweet tannin. The wine's aromatics include scents of Provencal olives, jammy black cherries, blackberries, truffles, and toast. A very full-bodied wine, it is layered, thick, and pure. This is the most concentrated of the 1995 St.-Emilion premier grand crus. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025.WS 95 (12/2007): Crushed berry and dark chocolate. Slightly reserved in the nose. Full-bodied, with loads of layered, velvety tannins. Big, yet refined and beautiful. Long and caressing. Give this time.IWC 93 (6/1998): Bright dark ruby. Sweet, superripe aromas of raspberry, plum, black cherry, tobacco, toffee and game. Like liquid velvet in the mouth: sweet, voluptuous, seamless. Palate-staining flavors of black cherry, chocolate and smoky oak. Finishes with chewy, toothfurring tannins and great persistence.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLAngelus.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeCarillondelAngelus.aspWA 98 (4/2008): This 7,000 case blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc will rival or perhaps eclipse vintages such as 2000, 1998, 1990, and 1989. Its dense purple color is followed by an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, espresso roast, blackberries, blueberries, and a hint of wood. In spite of its thick texture, terrific acidity, high tannins, and enormous intensity as well as richness, it is surprisingly approachable, but given how slowly the 1989 and 1990 have aged, I would recommend cellaring it for 8-10 years. It should keep for three decades. A brilliant wine!WS 96 (3/2008): Black purple in color, with coffee, blackberry and currant on the nose. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins and a long aftertaste of toasty oak and ripe fruit. Very close to the 2000. Superb. Best after 2018. 7,000 cases made.IWC 96 (6/2008): Good red-ruby. Deep, sweet aromas and flavors of black raspberry, cassis, graphite and licorice. Wonderfully lush, silky and seamless, with a near-perfect balance of fruit and acidity. Very full in the middle palate but with terrific verve leavening the wine's total ripeness. This really coats the palate with flavor and the very long, slow-building finish features utterly sensual tannins. A great performance for this property.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChAngelus.aspWA 85 (1/1998): The 1978 is fully mature, with a big, spicy, rich, plummy bouquet. This solidly built, relatively fat, intense d'Angludet has shed its tannins and should be consumed. Anticipated maturity: Now-may be in decline.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdAngludet.aspWA 85 (1/1998): The 1978 is fully mature, with a big, spicy, rich, plummy bouquet. This solidly built, relatively fat, intense d'Angludet has shed its tannins and should be consumed. Anticipated maturity: Now-may be in decline.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdAngludet.aspWA 85 (1/1998): The 1978 is fully mature, with a big, spicy, rich, plummy bouquet. This solidly built, relatively fat, intense d'Angludet has shed its tannins and should be consumed. Anticipated maturity: Now-may be in decline.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdAngludet.aspWA 85 (1/1998): The 1978 is fully mature, with a big, spicy, rich, plummy bouquet. This solidly built, relatively fat, intense d'Angludet has shed its tannins and should be consumed. Anticipated maturity: Now-may be in decline.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdAngludet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdAngludet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdAngludet.aspWA 91 (4/2003): This continues to be one of the most seductive and luscious d'Armailhacs I have ever tasted. It may be my favorite vintage of d'Armailhac. Opaque purple-colored, this blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Merlot has surprisingly good acidity with the high Merlot content and high tannin, but an expressive, opulent mid-texture and loads of charcoal-infused, cedary, black currant fruit intermixed with spice box, dried herbs, and espresso notes. The wine is full-bodied, sweet, and expansive. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdArmailhac.aspWA 90 (2/1998): With a medium dark ruby color, and a complex, kirsch, pain grille, smoky, deliciously complex and fruity nose, this fragrant wine offers a wealth of raspberry, currant, and cherry-like fruit. It is not a blockbuster, but rather, an elegant, multi-dimensional, round, velvety-textured wine with a lushness and sweetness of fruit that makes it irresistible. This is one of the more seductive wines of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: Now-2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLArrosee.aspWA 95 (4/2008): Part of the garagiste efforts from Jonathan Malthus, Les Asteries is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2005 reveals spicy, oaky aromas intermixed with scents of chocolate, blackberries, espresso roast, and graphite. This thick, juicy, modern-styled St.-Emilion offers impressive concentration, purity, and depth in its flamboyant personality. Very impressive! Anticipated maturity: 2013-2025IWC 92 (6/2008): Bright ruby. Complex nose melds black raspberry, tobacco, minerals, smoke, espresso, cinnamon, licorice and nutty oak. The palate offers an almost syrupy intensity of sweet fruits, with complicating notes of minerals and game and excellent definition. Dense, broad and sexy wine, finishing with excellent length. On this tasting, this was my favorite 2005 from the Jonathan Maltus portfolio, which also includes Teyssier, Grand Destieux, Laforge, Le Carre and Le Dome. WS 90 (3/2008): Dark purple in color, with aromas of tar, licorice and ripe fruit. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a mineral, blackberry and light toasty oak finish. Extracted, but should come around with bottle age. Best after 2014. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesAsteries.aspWA 88 (3/1997): A ripe, port-like nose of dried fruits, herbs, old tea, and minerals made for an intriguing set of aromatics. In the mouth, the wine reveals more sweetness and fat than one expects from Ausone, but an underlying pruny quality suggested the fruit was more than merely overripe. Hard tannin, acidity, and earthiness were noticeable in the background, but overall this was a good to excellent wine, with its positive attributes outweighing the more troublesome ones.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChAusone.aspWA 95 (4/2005): In many respects, the 2002 may be even more impressive than the 2003. A far more challenging vintage to get everything right, and especially in St.-Emilion, where many disappointments have been produced, this is one of the wines of the vintage and (along with Pavie) among the finest wines from the Right Bank. It possesses a deep purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of creme de cassis, blackberries, wet stones, and wonderfully perfumed floral notes. When the wine hits the palate, it exhibits impressive purity, medium to full body, a multi-layered texture, and extraordinary precision and intensity with a finish just short of 50 seconds. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChAusone.aspWA 85 (12/1995): This wine was so easy to drink at age two that it is hard to believe it is still holding together. The color is medium ruby with amber at the edge. The nose is textbook Graves - minerals, spice, tobacco, and red and black fruits. With low acidity and medium body, this supple, attractive wine should be drunk up as it is unlikely to improve . Tasted 5 times after bottling with consistent tasting notes.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBahansHautBrion.aspWA 88 (4/2002): The black cherry, plum, and mineral-scented 1999 Bahans Haut Brion was somewhat closed aromatically when I tasted it. The wine has medium body, excellent purity, good texture, and firm tannin. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2015.IWC 88 (6/2002): Moderately saturated medium red. Roasted plum and raspberry, smoky oak, hot stones and tobacco on the nose. Sweet and vinous, with plenty of personality and structure. Firmly tannic finish features good cut and length. This is excellent for the vintage.WS 86 (3/2002): Very pleasant, with tobacco, mineral and plum. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a light finish. Best after 2003. 8,330 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBahansHautBrion.aspWS 88 (4/1995): Well made and concentrated, medium-bodied, built more for finesse than power, displaying lemon, honey and butterscotch flavors that offer zing and creaminess at the same time.WA 85 (1/1998): Very typical of the vintage, the 1989 Bastor-Lamontagne is extremely low in acidity, and ripe, with surprisingly evolved medium gold color, and a great deal of fruit and coarseness that I have rarely seen in other vintages of this wine. It will no doubt have to be drunk quite early. Anticipated maturity: Now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBastor-Lamontagne.aspWA 91 (4/2008): Renowned Bordeaux oenologist, Denis Dubourdiu, oversees the winemaking at all of the properties owned by Philippe Casteja, which includes Batailley. Their 2005, one of the finest efforts this estate has yet produced, is backward, tannic, and almost primordial in style. Built for the long-term, it offers plenty of sweet creme de cassis fruit intermixed with smoke, cedar, and earth notes. Full-bodied and powerful, it is an old style Pauillac with well-integrated acidity as well as sweet but elevated tannins. Give it 7-8 years of bottle age, and drink it between 2015-2035.WS 90 (3/2008): Has licorice, currant and fresh cèpe on the nose. Full and silky, with lots of sweet tobacco and berry character and plenty of ripe Cabernet fruit. Long and caressing. Best after 2012. 20,000 cases made.IWC 87-89 (6/2006): Deep ruby-red. Very dark aromas of cassis, blackberry, licorice and bitter chocolate. Ripe, juicy and fresh, with lovely violet lift to the dark berry flavors. Finishes with ripe, dusty tannins and lingering black fruit flavors. Not the last word in complexity but unusually rich and floral in 2005. Wait until 2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBatailley.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBeau-SejourBecot.aspWA 91 (4/2001): The 1998 exhibits flamboyant, obvious new oak, but unlike other years, there is more concentration, power, and depth behind the vanillin/pain grille notes. Full-bodied, dense, and chewy, with copious peppery, herb-tinged, red currant, black currant, and blackberry fruit, this is a lush, generously-endowed offering with a lightly tannic finish. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2016.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBeau-SejourBecot.aspWA 90 (5/2011): An outstanding wine and a great sleeper of the vintage, this second wine exhibits a denser purple color along with a sweet kiss of creme de cassis, licorice, incense and graphite. Fruity and medium to full-bodied , with an impressive texture and supple tannins, this wine should drink well for 10-15 years.WS 89 (3/2011): Ripe and racy, offering a nice direct beam of dark plum and macerated black currant fruit, followed quickly by graphite and espresso notes. Fleshy and pure on the finish, with fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2017.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaCroixdeBeaucaillou.aspWA 92 (4/2003): Undeniably the most complete Beausejour Duffau since the mythical 1990, the black/purple-colored 2000 exhibits a port-like bouquet of licorice, blackberry liqueur, minerals, blueberries, camphor, and melted asphalt. Medium rather than full-bodied, it has a multi-layered texture in addition to gorgeous ripeness. While it is not as rich or super-concentrated as the colossal 1990, the 2000 still merits significant interest. Pure, complex, and reasonably priced, it will be at its apogee between 2013-2025+.WS 91 (3/2003): Beautiful and sweet. A joy to taste. Lovely berry, floral and hints of vanilla on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a caressing, delicious finish. Best after 2010. 1,665 cases made.IWC 90 (6/2003): Bright red-ruby. Extravagantly ripe nose combines redcurrant, coffee bean, five-spice powder, stewed tomato and exotic oak scents; slight resiny whiff of surmaturite Then silky and bright in the mouth, with plump, dense red berry flavors framed by healthy acidity. Finishes long and broad, with chewy, ripe tannins. This has been nicely opened up by its elevagehttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBeausejour-Duffau.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBelAir.aspWA 89 (4/2003): The 2000 Belle-Vue is a full-bodied, densely textured, substantial, chunky effort with an opaque purple color, deep, rich fruit, plenty of glycerin, and moderate tannin. It is a hefty, surprisingly intense wine. The 2000 is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 12% Petit Verdot.WS 84 (12/2003): Another red with tobacco, vanilla and berry character. Medium-bodied, medium tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now through 2006. 3,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBelle-Vue.aspWA 99 (4/2008): This tiny gem of a property, cropped at 15 hectoliters per hectare, is composed of 5 acres of 45-year old Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and a tiny parcel of Cabernet Sauvignon. It has produced one of the vintage’s most compelling wines in 2005. Sadly, there are only 4,000 bottles of this inky/purple-hued St.-Emilion. It boasts an extraordinary perfume of graphite, blackberries, cassis, and sweet kirsch intermixed with notes of incense, spice box, licorice, and subtle wood. Stunningly rich with full body, zesty acidity, and high but velvety tannins, the final blend is composed of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. This monumental St.-Emilion requires a decade of cellaring, but it should last for 4-5 decades. It will unquestionably be one of the vintage’s immortals. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2035.WS 97 (6/2008): The crushed blackberry and raspberry are wonderful in this wine. Full-bodied, with superpolished tannins and loads of ripe fruit, toasty oak and coffee on the palate. Goes on and on. An opulent young red. Best after 2016. 420 cases made. IWC 91-94 (6/2007): Bright ruby. Aromas of cassis, black raspberry and liquid graphite. Hugely concentrated but very backward, with exotic and extremely dark flavors of black fruits, licorice and violet. This has a surprisingly silky texture (a year ago it seemed to be a bit more chunky) but the major tannins are going to require considerable patience. Better than I thought last year, but not for the faint of heart.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBellevueMondotte.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBourgneuf.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBouscaut.aspWA 91 (2/1996): Branaire-Ducru has consistently been one of the finest 1975s. I have come to the conclusion that it will never resolve all of the tannin, but the wine has such a large-scaled, muscular, rich, concentrated personality that the tannin level is acceptable. There is plenty of cedar, sweet cassis fruit, vanilla, and lead pencil notes to this powerful Branaire-Ducru. The wine's deep ruby color displays some amber at the edge. I enjoyed drinking this wine young, but it has not budged in its development, continuing to display freshness, richness, and the tell-tale tannin of the vintage. It should continue to evolve and last for another 10-15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBranaire-Ducru.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBranaire-Ducru.aspWA 95 (4/2006): Proprietor Patrick Maroteaux, president of Unions des Grands Crus Classes, is pulling out all the stops to make Branaire as alluring as several of the Leovilles and Ducru Beaucaillou. 2003 and 2004 may be the finest back-to-back vintages ever produced at Branaire. Even better than the 1982, the profound 2003 Branaire Ducru boasts a saturated plum/purple color as well as an extraordinarily complex nose of black currants, blackberries, espresso roast, white chocolate, minerals, and truffles. It displays amazing freshness and definition for such a complex, complete, and full-bodied wine. A brilliant effort in the vintage, it will undoubtedly close down in several years and need more time, but perhaps its low acidity and huge, extravagant fruit-forwardness will keep it drinking well over the next two decades. A brilliant wine!WS 93 (3/2006): Opulent aromas of blackberry, olives and toasted oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with big chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Big and muscular wine. Best after 2009. 15,000 cases made. IWC 92 (6/2006): Sexy aromas of raspberry, mocha and milk chocolate. Fat, sweet, rich and full; a large-scaled, seamless wine with terrific volume. Just a hint of exotic roasted character on the palate-caressing finish. As appealing as this is right now, it appears to be shutting down in the bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBranaire-Ducru.aspWA 90 (6/2007): A beauty from the Margaux appellation, this savory, floral, plum, cherry, and black currant-scented 2004 exhibits wonderful sweetness, medium body, and enough fresh acids to provide definition. An ethereal quality results in a pure, seductive wine that should drink well for 12-15+ years. How good it is to see this famous estate back on track. IWC 89 (6/2007): Red-ruby. Expressive, inviting aromas of plum, redcurrant, smoked meat, mocha, tobacco and cedar. Suave, juicy and bright, with lovely inner-mouth aromatic character to the flavors of redcurrant, minerals and dried flowers. Focused and primary. Lovely subtle claret with a juicy quality and lingering perfume.WS 87 (3/2007): Dark in color, with lots of tar and sweet tobacco character. Full-bodied, with a light herbal character, silky tannins and a medium finish. Slightly disappointing for this estate. Best after 2007. 12,500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBrane-Cantenac.aspWS 89 (7/2003): It's chewy, with plenty of fruit, berry and tobacco character. Medium-bodied, with round tannins and a mineral, berry aftertaste. New red for me. Best after 2005.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChBrisson.aspWA 88 (6/2001): The medium to dark ruby-colored 1999 Volnay Vieilles Vignes has delightful violet and blackberry aromas. Medium-bodied, rich, and plump, it has excellent structure and a jammy, black cherry-flavored personality. It is delineated yet powerful and extremely flavorful. Drink it over the next 6-7 years.BH 87 (4/2001): Stylistically, this has a foot in both Volnay and Pommard as there is elegant fruit coupled with quite powerful flavors, ripe tannins and an enticing nugget of complexity on the finish. Lovely villages. Drink: 2006http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCalon-Segur.aspWA 88 (6/2001): The medium to dark ruby-colored 1999 Volnay Vieilles Vignes has delightful violet and blackberry aromas. Medium-bodied, rich, and plump, it has excellent structure and a jammy, black cherry-flavored personality. It is delineated yet powerful and extremely flavorful. Drink it over the next 6-7 years.BH 87 (4/2001): Stylistically, this has a foot in both Volnay and Pommard as there is elegant fruit coupled with quite powerful flavors, ripe tannins and an enticing nugget of complexity on the finish. Lovely villages. Drink: 2006http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCalon-Segur.aspWA 94 (4/2006): Bottled in July, 2005, the saturated ruby/purple-colored 2003 exhibits a tightly-knit, but promising nose of mulberries, blackberries, cherries, and hints of new oak and truffles. This 60% Cabernet Sauvignon / 40% Merlot blend possesses a gorgeous texture as well as an expansive, exotic softness, and 13% alcohol (according to the proprietor, Madame Denise Gasqueton). Generous and rich, this high class, full-bodied wine will undoubtedly be more approachable than its closest spiritual sibling, the 1982. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCalon-Segur.aspWA 94 (4/2006): Bottled in July, 2005, the saturated ruby/purple-colored 2003 exhibits a tightly-knit, but promising nose of mulberries, blackberries, cherries, and hints of new oak and truffles. This 60% Cabernet Sauvignon / 40% Merlot blend possesses a gorgeous texture as well as an expansive, exotic softness, and 13% alcohol (according to the proprietor, Madame Denise Gasqueton). Generous and rich, this high class, full-bodied wine will undoubtedly be more approachable than its closest spiritual sibling, the 1982. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCalon-Segur.aspWA 90 (4/2003): This is the Roc de Cambes' finest effort since the 1990. Notes of black cherry jam (kirsch) soar from the glass of this expansive, full-bodied, fleshy sexpot. Deep and chewy, with plenty of chocolate, cocoa, blackberry, and cherry fruit displayed in a flamboyant style, it is a knockout, sensual wine to drink now and over the next 10-12 years. It is also a sleeper of the vintage.IWC 89 (6/2003): Good bright red-ruby. Superripe aromas of roasted red fruits, espresso and woodsmoke; this reminded me of a Bonneau Chateauneuf du Pape. Fat and liqueur-like in the mouth, with roasted red fruit and chocolate flavors managing to retain good freshness. Intensely flavored wine, finishing with somewhat aggressive tannins and a strong element of sweet oak.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RocdesCambes.aspWA 90 (4/2003): This is the Roc de Cambes' finest effort since the 1990. Notes of black cherry jam (kirsch) soar from the glass of this expansive, full-bodied, fleshy sexpot. Deep and chewy, with plenty of chocolate, cocoa, blackberry, and cherry fruit displayed in a flamboyant style, it is a knockout, sensual wine to drink now and over the next 10-12 years. It is also a sleeper of the vintage.IWC 89 (6/2003): Good bright red-ruby. Superripe aromas of roasted red fruits, espresso and woodsmoke; this reminded me of a Bonneau Chateauneuf du Pape. Fat and liqueur-like in the mouth, with roasted red fruit and chocolate flavors managing to retain good freshness. Intensely flavored wine, finishing with somewhat aggressive tannins and a strong element of sweet oak.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RocdesCambes.aspWS 96 (11/1998): This has always been one of the great wines of the vintage and one of the greatest ever produced at this estate. Seriously dark ruby in color, with blackberry, earth and fresh floral aromas. Full-bodied, with full silky tannins and thick, ripe fruit. Still needs time.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Best after 2000.WA 94 (6/2000): An amber edge to this wine's dark garnet/ruby color suggests approaching maturity. A fragrant, sweet nose of minerals, cherry jam, smoke, earth, cedar, and vanilla is enticing. Medium to full-bodied, with fabulously sweet fruit, a viscous texture, yet vibrant underlying acidity as well as surprising tannin and length, this is the greatest Canon produced over the last thirty years. Anticipated maturity: now-2015.IWC 92 (8/2002): Good full red. Superripe aromas of roasted red fruits, chocolate and minerals. Dense, rich and chocolatey, but still youthfully vibrant and full of life. Classy and deep, with a complicating nutty note. A solidly structured wine that finishes with firm, ripe tannins and lovely persistence. Should last well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCanon.aspWS 93 (3/2003): Loads of toasted oak on this one, with very ripe fruit character. Full-bodied, and very concentrated, yet the tannins are round and creamy. Smoky finish. Exciting stuff here. Best Canon in a long, long time. Best after 2010. _x000D__x000D__x000D_IWC 90 (3/2003): Moderately saturated red-ruby. Cassis, black raspberry and tarry new oak on the nose. Bright, fresh and firm in the mouth, with dark fruit flavors supported by a solid spine of acids and tannins. _x000D__x000D__x000D_WA 89 (4/2003): A stylish, elegant and restrained 2000, this medium-bodied wine reveals notes of strawberry jam intermixed with black cherries, minerals, oak, and herbs. The tannin is sweet and the mid-palate firm, even beefy. This is an attractive, medium-bodied effort with impressive ripeness, length, and balance, yet it is not a blockbuster. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020._x000D_http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCanon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCanon-Moueix.aspWA 87 (4/1999) I had hoped this wine would turn out closer to outstanding, but it is an excellent Cantemerle, if not quite as stunning as I had expected. The wine offers a dark ruby color, and a sweet nose of black raspberries, subtle new oak, and acacia smells. There is fine sweetness and solid tannin in this elegant, symmetrical wine. It is more forward and lighter than it was from cask, but it is a stylish example of Cantemerle. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCantemerle.aspWA 87 (4/1999) I had hoped this wine would turn out closer to outstanding, but it is an excellent Cantemerle, if not quite as stunning as I had expected. The wine offers a dark ruby color, and a sweet nose of black raspberries, subtle new oak, and acacia smells. There is fine sweetness and solid tannin in this elegant, symmetrical wine. It is more forward and lighter than it was from cask, but it is a stylish example of Cantemerle. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCantemerle.aspWS 89 (3/2003): Impressive aromas of plums and earth in this one. Medium-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a smoky, berry aftertaste. Best after 2005. 4,580 cases made. WA 87-88 (4/2001): Cantenac is a reasonably priced St.-Emilion, a commodity that is increasingly difficult to find. While not complex, it is a fruit-driven, fat, ripe, in-your-face effort that will provide tasty drinking over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCantenac.aspWS 92 (3/2003): Fascinating aromas of chocolate, meat and ripe berry follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a long, delicious finish. A beauty here. Best wine ever from this property. Best after 2010.WA 90 (8/2003): Among the finest Cantenac-Browns of the last three decades, the saturated purple-colored 2000 is a sleeper of the vintage. Loaded with chocolatey black currants intermixed with sweet earth, cedar, and spice box, it exhibits medium to full body, surprisingly ripe tannin for a wine from this estate, a multi-layered texture as well as mid-palate, and a finish that lasts 25-30 seconds. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2018.IWC 89 (6/2003): Good full ruby-red. Ripe, extroverted nose combines roasted plum, boysenberry, mocha, game, smoke and truffle. Sweet, supple and consistent, with plum and currant flavors nicely shaped by juicy, harmonious acidity. Finishes with big, dusty tannins and moderate length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCantenac-Brown.aspWA 89 (4/2003): A winner, the dark plum/ruby/purple-colored 2000 exhibits aromas of smoke, herbs, black fruits, licorice, and vanilla. Medium to full-bodied, expansive, and layered, it is a candidate for 10-12 years of evolution.IWC 87-90 (6/2001): Ruby-red. Precise aromas of black and red berries, mocha and bitter chocolate, along with faint liqueur-like and meaty elements. Sweet and lush in the mouth, with good volume but also noteworthy clarity of flavor. Finishes with big, spreading, palate-coating tannins and very good length. WS 87 (7/2003): Lovely plummy wine, with lots of chocolate and vanilla character. Medium-bodied, with full and round soft tannins and a long finish. Much better than from barrel. Delicious. Best after 2005. 7,250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCapdeFaugeres.aspWA 89 (4/2003): A winner, the dark plum/ruby/purple-colored 2000 exhibits aromas of smoke, herbs, black fruits, licorice, and vanilla. Medium to full-bodied, expansive, and layered, it is a candidate for 10-12 years of evolution.IWC 87-90 (6/2001): Ruby-red. Precise aromas of black and red berries, mocha and bitter chocolate, along with faint liqueur-like and meaty elements. Sweet and lush in the mouth, with good volume but also noteworthy clarity of flavor. Finishes with big, spreading, palate-coating tannins and very good length. WS 87 (7/2003): Lovely plummy wine, with lots of chocolate and vanilla character. Medium-bodied, with full and round soft tannins and a long finish. Much better than from barrel. Delicious. Best after 2005. 7,250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCapdeFaugeres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarruadesdeLafite.aspWA 85 (2/1993): I lament the fact that few "second" wines actually resemble their more esteemed siblings. Why? As severe as the selection can be for the grand vin, little selection is employed for most second wines as diluted cuvees, young vines, and whatever is tossed into these blends. With that warning in mind, the 1989 is a deuxieme wine that displays some of Lafite's personality. The vanillin, smoky, lead pencil nose is unmistakable. In the mouth, there is real focus, character, and elegance. This tasty Lafite-look-alike will drink handsomely for 6-12 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarruadesdeLafite.aspWA 86-88 (2/1998): I have noticed in my tastings that the second wine of Lafite-Rothschild, Carruades de Lafite, has improved over recent years. The 1996, a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon and 37% Merlot, may turn out to be the finest Carruades I have ever tasted. It possesses as much power, ripeness, and fleshy fruit (because of the high percentage of Merlot) as I have ever detected in this offering. While it does not quite have the characteristics of Lafite, being fleshier and more accessible, it is a beautifully made wine with a subtle dosage of toasty new oak, an appealing texture, and excellent length. Given its power, this second wine will need 2-4 years of cellaring, and keep for 15+ years (I would not be surprised to see it last for two decades).http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarruadesdeLafite.aspWA 89 (4/2002): The 1999 Carruades de Lafite is made in the style of its bigger sibling. It reveals graphite, lead pencil, black currant, and cedary aromas, medium body, sweet glycerin, and a gorgeously expansive texture and palate. The wine is long and Lafite-like, and is unbelievably impressive. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarruadesdeLafite.aspWS 93 (3/2003): Wonderfully ripe and decadent, with tobacco, meat and ripe berry aromas, with hints of currants. Full-bodied, and very velvety, with unctuous fruit flavors. Long and exotic aftertaste. Terrific wine. Second wine of Lafite Rothschild. Best after 2010. 2,375 cases made.WA 90 (4/2003): A brilliant second wine, the 2000 Carruades de Lafite (51.4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42.3% Merlot, 4.9% Cabernet Franc, and 1.4% Petit Verdot), aged in 10-15% new French oak, shows wonderfully sweet lead pencil shavings intermixed with an elegant black cherry and cassis nose. A wine of tremendous purity, medium body, and the tell-tale Lafite elegance, this is a gorgeous wine to drink now and over the next 12-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarruadesdeLafite.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarruadesdeLafite.aspWA 90 (2/2009): The second wine, which has soared in quality over the last decade, is an outstanding effort displaying a character similar to that of Lafite, without the size, depth, and aging potential of that wine. The 2006 Carruades de Lafite offers up aromas of graphite, cedar, black currants, sweet cherries, and smoky herbs. This complex, more evolved, medium-bodied, silky-textured, sexy offering will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 15+ years.WS 89 (3/2009): The second wine, which has soared in quality over the last decade, is an outstanding effort displaying a character similar to that of Lafite, without the size, depth, and aging potential of that wine. The 2006 Carruades de Lafite offers up aromas of graphite, cedar, black currants, sweet cherries, and smoky herbs. This complex, more evolved, medium-bodied, silky-textured, sexy offering will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 15+ years.JR 16 (1-2010): Smudgy rim. Jagged, embryonic nose. Smooth and polished but without much real spark. As though it has gone through too many committees.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarruadesdeLafite.aspWA 91 (2/1997): The 1990 Certan de May is a more conventional wine, with loads of jammy, sweet, cedary, and herbaceous cassis scents intermixed with a roasted herb, toasty wood character. Rich and full-bodied, as well as low in acidity and soft, the wine is already revealing some amber at the edge, and a precocious, flattering personality. Drink it now and over the next 15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCertandeMay.aspWS 89 (11/1989): no tasting note.WA 87 (4/1990): In all my cask tastings the 1986 was an impressive wine, with deep ruby/black color, super depth, richness, full body, stunning length, and enough tannin to insure a positive evolution for 5-6 years. Muscular and brawny, it is marked by the toasty vanilla of 100% new oak barrels. The wine is excellent, but much lighter than I had thought it to be when tasted from cask. It is a sleeper of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: Now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChChambertMarbuzet.aspWA 92 (4/2003): This is the finest effort I have ever tasted from this estate. It possesses great intensity, an inky purple color to the rim, a tremendous nose of minerals, white acacia flowers, creme de cassis, and black cherries, with some licorice, vanilla, and smoke in the background. It is truly great stuff, although I would not push its aging capacity beyond 10-12 years. This intense, full-throttle offering is made from a blend of 50% Merlot and equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: now-2014.WS 89 (3/2003): A sturdy wine. Very ripe aromas of fruit, almost raisins, with grilled meat and toasted oak. Full-bodied, and highly extracted, with firm tannins and a long finish. A big red. Best after 2005. 10,000 cases made.IWC 86-88 (6/2001): Medium ruby. Aromas of roasted raspberry, roasted nuts, black olive and smoky oak; shows a slightly generic cold maceration quality. Chunky and dense in the mouth, with flavors of dark berries and earth. Finishes with slow-building, dusty tannins. Currently offers less charm than the '99.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCharmail.aspWA 92 (4/2003): This is the finest effort I have ever tasted from this estate. It possesses great intensity, an inky purple color to the rim, a tremendous nose of minerals, white acacia flowers, creme de cassis, and black cherries, with some licorice, vanilla, and smoke in the background. It is truly great stuff, although I would not push its aging capacity beyond 10-12 years. This intense, full-throttle offering is made from a blend of 50% Merlot and equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: now-2014.WS 89 (3/2003): A sturdy wine. Very ripe aromas of fruit, almost raisins, with grilled meat and toasted oak. Full-bodied, and highly extracted, with firm tannins and a long finish. A big red. Best after 2005. 10,000 cases made.IWC 86-88 (6/2001): Medium ruby. Aromas of roasted raspberry, roasted nuts, black olive and smoky oak; shows a slightly generic cold maceration quality. Chunky and dense in the mouth, with flavors of dark berries and earth. Finishes with slow-building, dusty tannins. Currently offers less charm than the '99.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCharmail.aspWA 86 (2/1993): Chasse-Spleen made a good, elegant 1988. Displaying a generous, intense, smoky, blackcurrant bouquet, and chewy, medium-bodied flavors, it has a surprisingly long, spicy, soft finish. Anticipated maturity: Now-2001.WS 82 (11/1998): An '88 cru bourgeois on the decline. Pretty leaf, berry and earth aromas and flavors, but the palate is slightly dry, with austere tannins and medium fruit concentration.--1988 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChChasseSpleen.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClosChaumont.aspWA 92 (4/2003): A superb wine, this opaque purple-colored effort boasts a vividly pure nose of graphite, melted licorice, creme de cassis, espresso, and wet stones backed up by subtle, high quality, spicy, new oak. Multi-layered, full-bodied, dense, concentrated, and pure, with sweet tannin and superb length, this future classic will be at its best between 2008-2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChChauvin.aspWA 89 (8/1993): As the 1979 Cheval Blanc becomes less and less attractive, the 1978 has gained in stature. Although it would suffer in a blind tasting against such legends as the 1982 and 1983, the 1978 offers a smoky, herbaceous, curranty bouquet, medium-bodied, ripe, herbaceous, rich, roasted flavors, and moderate tannins in the austere yet classy finish. This fine Cheval Blanc may merit an outstanding rating as it reaches full maturity. Could this be a replay of the 1966?WS 84 (3/1999): Bold and tough. Aromas of roasted cocoa, earth and iron give way to tobacco and earthy flavors over firm tannins. It's fully mature, but still has character. Drink now through 2003.--Cheval-Blanc vertical.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWA 95 (12/1997): A classic example of Cheval Blanc's style, the 1983 continues to put on weight and develop favorably in the bottle. A saturated dark ruby color with some faint lightening at the edges exhibits less age than most right bank 1983s. The huge nose of mint, jammy black fruits, chocolate, and coffee is sensational, as well as surprisingly well-developed. The wine offers lusty, rich, unctuous fruit presented in a medium to full-bodied, low acid, concentrated, rather hedonistic style. There are no hard edges to be found, but there is plenty of tannin in the lush finish. Gorgeous for drinking now, this is a great Cheval Blanc that should continue to drink well, and possibly improve for another 20 years. The 1983 is far superior to anything Cheval Blanc has subsequently produced. It remains somewhat undervalued for its quality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspMB ***[*]: Two notes: lean and rather raw in 1990. Next a magnum at the Wolf/Weinart vertical: very deep, fairly intense but 'only thinking about' maturing; fragrant but more peppery than the '85 on nose and palate (more Cabernet Franc). Good firm fruit though, and went well with the beef. Should turn out well- 2019-2020.WA 92 (12/1997): At one time I thought the 1986 was better than the 1985, but the open-knit charm and currant exotic personality fo the 1985 makes a more persuasive case for it than for the more reserved, tannic, and backward 1986. The 1986 still has a youthful dark ruby saturated color with no amber at the edge. The wine possesses a developing bouquet that offers up weedy tobacco, juxtaposed with sweet black berry, raspberry, and cherry fruit. The new oak that was so obvious in the wine's youth has moved to the background, offering more of a cedary character than raw wood. Medium to full-bodied, and moderately tannic, this is a delineated Cheval Blanc with more of a Medoc personality than typical St.-Emilion opulence. The wine is rich, intense, and well-made, but still requiring a few more years of bottle age. Anticipated maturity: 1999-2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWS 91 (12/2007): Medium ruby, with a garnet edge. Aromas of plum and fresh herbs, such as basil, that turn to cedar and cigar box. Full-bodied, with soft, silky tannins. Long and flavorful, with subtle chocolate, berry and light coffee aftertaste. Gorgeous.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2007.IWC 91 (6/1999): Moderately saturated medium red. Deeper aromas of plum, loganberry, milk chocolate and spice; seems more vibrant than the '97 today. Good density and weight in the mouth; offers a penetrating sweetness and a smooth texture despite its lively acidity. Finishes youthfully fresh, with firm but not hard tannins and sneaky length. WA 90 (4/1999): The elegant, moderately weighted 1996 Cheval Blanc reveals a deep garnet/plum, evolved color. Quintessentially elegant, with a complex nose of black fruits, coconut, smoke, and pain grille, this medium-bodied wine exhibits sweet fruit on the attack, substantial complexity, and a lush, velvety-textured finish. It is very soft and evolved for a 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWA 93 (4/2002): The complex, explosively fragrant 1999 Cheval Blanc is a blend of 59% Merlot and 41% Cabernet Franc. It is already showing well, which is a good sign for a wine that traditionally is reserved early in life, but puts on weight and richness in the bottle. Stylistically, this wine is probably cut from the same mold as vintages such as 1985, 1966, and 1962. The color is a dense ruby with purple nuances. Once past the blockbuster bouquet of menthol, leather, black fruits, licorice, and mocha, the wine reveals medium body, extraordinary elegance, purity, and sweet, harmonious flavors with no hard edges. This is a seamless beauty of finesse, charm, and concentration. The 1999 is an exciting Cheval Blanc to drink relatively young. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWS 97 (3/2008): This is really gorgeous on the nose, with blackberry, mineral, light vanilla bean and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is racy and very beautiful. The tannins coat the palate, but leave a provoking impression. A Cheval for long-term aging. Best after 2017.JR 18 (2/2010): The blend was 50:50 Cabernet Franc:Merlot. Much less obviously aromatic than the Petit Cheval at this stage, but the wine is intense and concentrated and convincing. More pixels! said someone rather cleverly. Then it opened out and became very intense indeed. Some chocolate malt with great freshness on the finish and then it became just a little skinny.IWC 96+ (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Knockout nose offers terrific vinosity to the aromas of dark raspberry, mocha, minerals, licorice, menthol and dark chocolate. Lush, fat and suave, with superb energy and lift to the fine-grained, palate-staining flavors. Despite its rather high 14% alcohol, this boasts near-perfect balance and finishes with outstanding verve. A great vintage for Cheval, and likely to improve in bottle for at least two or three decades. WA 96 (4/2008): The dense ruby/purple-hued 2005 Cheval Blanc’s ethereal bouquet of menthol, coffee, wet stones, black cherries, blackberries, and hints of graphite and spice soars from the glass. An equal part blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, it is medium to full-bodied with a gorgeous texture in addition to high tannins that glide over the palate with no angularity or astringency. While it does not quite reach the perfection of the 2000, it should rival the profound 1998 and 1990. This is not a Cheval Blanc for near-term drinking as it demands at least a decade’s worth of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWS 97 (3/2008): This is really gorgeous on the nose, with blackberry, mineral, light vanilla bean and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is racy and very beautiful. The tannins coat the palate, but leave a provoking impression. A Cheval for long-term aging. Best after 2017.JR 18 (2/2010): The blend was 50:50 Cabernet Franc:Merlot. Much less obviously aromatic than the Petit Cheval at this stage, but the wine is intense and concentrated and convincing. More pixels! said someone rather cleverly. Then it opened out and became very intense indeed. Some chocolate malt with great freshness on the finish and then it became just a little skinny.IWC 96+ (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Knockout nose offers terrific vinosity to the aromas of dark raspberry, mocha, minerals, licorice, menthol and dark chocolate. Lush, fat and suave, with superb energy and lift to the fine-grained, palate-staining flavors. Despite its rather high 14% alcohol, this boasts near-perfect balance and finishes with outstanding verve. A great vintage for Cheval, and likely to improve in bottle for at least two or three decades. WA 96 (4/2008): The dense ruby/purple-hued 2005 Cheval Blanc’s ethereal bouquet of menthol, coffee, wet stones, black cherries, blackberries, and hints of graphite and spice soars from the glass. An equal part blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, it is medium to full-bodied with a gorgeous texture in addition to high tannins that glide over the palate with no angularity or astringency. While it does not quite reach the perfection of the 2000, it should rival the profound 1998 and 1990. This is not a Cheval Blanc for near-term drinking as it demands at least a decade’s worth of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWS 97 (3/2008): This is really gorgeous on the nose, with blackberry, mineral, light vanilla bean and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is racy and very beautiful. The tannins coat the palate, but leave a provoking impression. A Cheval for long-term aging. Best after 2017.JR 18 (2/2010): The blend was 50:50 Cabernet Franc:Merlot. Much less obviously aromatic than the Petit Cheval at this stage, but the wine is intense and concentrated and convincing. More pixels! said someone rather cleverly. Then it opened out and became very intense indeed. Some chocolate malt with great freshness on the finish and then it became just a little skinny.IWC 96+ (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Knockout nose offers terrific vinosity to the aromas of dark raspberry, mocha, minerals, licorice, menthol and dark chocolate. Lush, fat and suave, with superb energy and lift to the fine-grained, palate-staining flavors. Despite its rather high 14% alcohol, this boasts near-perfect balance and finishes with outstanding verve. A great vintage for Cheval, and likely to improve in bottle for at least two or three decades. WA 96 (4/2008): The dense ruby/purple-hued 2005 Cheval Blanc’s ethereal bouquet of menthol, coffee, wet stones, black cherries, blackberries, and hints of graphite and spice soars from the glass. An equal part blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, it is medium to full-bodied with a gorgeous texture in addition to high tannins that glide over the palate with no angularity or astringency. While it does not quite reach the perfection of the 2000, it should rival the profound 1998 and 1990. This is not a Cheval Blanc for near-term drinking as it demands at least a decade’s worth of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWS 97 (3/2008): This is really gorgeous on the nose, with blackberry, mineral, light vanilla bean and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is racy and very beautiful. The tannins coat the palate, but leave a provoking impression. A Cheval for long-term aging. Best after 2017.JR 18 (2/2010): The blend was 50:50 Cabernet Franc:Merlot. Much less obviously aromatic than the Petit Cheval at this stage, but the wine is intense and concentrated and convincing. More pixels! said someone rather cleverly. Then it opened out and became very intense indeed. Some chocolate malt with great freshness on the finish and then it became just a little skinny.IWC 96+ (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Knockout nose offers terrific vinosity to the aromas of dark raspberry, mocha, minerals, licorice, menthol and dark chocolate. Lush, fat and suave, with superb energy and lift to the fine-grained, palate-staining flavors. Despite its rather high 14% alcohol, this boasts near-perfect balance and finishes with outstanding verve. A great vintage for Cheval, and likely to improve in bottle for at least two or three decades. WA 96 (4/2008): The dense ruby/purple-hued 2005 Cheval Blanc’s ethereal bouquet of menthol, coffee, wet stones, black cherries, blackberries, and hints of graphite and spice soars from the glass. An equal part blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, it is medium to full-bodied with a gorgeous texture in addition to high tannins that glide over the palate with no angularity or astringency. While it does not quite reach the perfection of the 2000, it should rival the profound 1998 and 1990. This is not a Cheval Blanc for near-term drinking as it demands at least a decade’s worth of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCheval-Blanc.aspWS 86 (11/1998): Slightly rustic, but with a good concentration of ripe fruit. Brick-red color, with a ruby center. Medium- to full-bodied, with ripe berry and tobacco aromas, rather coarse yet velvety tannins and a slightly funky aftertaste.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now. IWC 83 (8/2002): Moderately saturated medium red. Aromatic nose of leather, coffee grounds and current leaf, with a distinct green component. Then firm but a bit hollow, with a sour quality and a green edge on the end. Avoids hardness but gives little pleasure. WA 55 (6/2009): Rusty-colored and vegetal, this 1982 resembles green tea more than a serious claret. It is completely dead, and can only get worse.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DomainedeChevalier.aspWA 90 (4/1991): The 1989 Clerc-Milon is a wonderfully hedonistic wine. It is deep ruby, with an intense, roasted, smoky bouquet of plums and currants. This full-bodied wine is packed with fruit, is chewy and opulent as well as very soft and alcoholic. In spite of the precocious impression, the tannin levels are high, similar in fact to the 1986. For the first time in my experience, I actually prefer the Clerc-Milon to Mouton-Rothschild! A great value. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClercMilon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClercMilon.aspWA 90 (4/1999): This is among the finest wines I have ever tasted from this estate. Lavishly oaked, with gobs of pain grille and rich fruit, it is massive and concentrated. The color is dense ruby/purple. The bouquet offers notes of roasted coffee, tobacco, and jammy cassis. Although surprisingly soft and opulent on the attack, the mid-section and finish reveal the wine's full body, high flavor extraction, and moderate tannin. This complete, large-scaled Clerc-Milon will be at its finest between 2005-2018._x000D__x000D__x000D_IWC 90 (6/1999): Deep ruby. Pungent spices, black fruits, minerals, roasted nuts and coffee on the nose. Smooth and thick but solidly structured; faint animal notes in the mouth. Nicely integrated acids and tannins. A vin de garde yet the tannins seem less tough than normal, spreading out nicely on the aftertaste._x000D__x000D__x000D_WS 88 (12/2007): Fresh currant and hints of sweet tobacco on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a vanilla, cigar box and fruit aftertaste. Just beginning to drink well.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClercMilon.aspMB ***** (12/1988): Six notes. A superb Climens, creamy, rich, lovely.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClimens.aspWA 92-94 (10/2003): I suspect most readers will find it hard to get excited about the 2002 vintage for the sweet wines of Barsac and Sauternes after what appears to be a prodigious 2001. However, 2002 is a very fine year for this region, possibly superior to any of the vintages between 2000 and 1991. The wines possess plenty of botrytis, but neither the impressive definition nor supreme elegance of the 2001s. This is a sweet, full-bodied, fat, concentrated, intense effort that was showing well in September, 2003._x000D__x000D_IWC 91+ (8/2005): Palish yellow. High-toned but quite closed on the nose today, hinting at honey and nuts. Then quite pure and aromatic in the mouth, offeringflavors of citrus fruits and honey. Perfumed and nicely delineated, if a bit sweeter and softer than I would have expected for this chateau in this vintage. Finishes long and lively.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClimens.aspWA 100 (2/1997) The 1989's aroma (believe it or not, the first bottle in the blind tasting was badly corked) jumps from the glass, offering up pure scents of flowers, black-raspberries, currants, vanillin, and truffles. Full-bodied, with a seamless texture, fabulous concentration, a massive degree of richness, but no heaviness or awkwardness, this remains one of the most profound young wines I have ever tasted. Its sweetness of fruit and layers of flavor, combined with its remarkable texture are the stuff of legends. Both of these wines are approachable (their high Merlot content ensures them softness), yet they remain largely unevolved. If readers like them young, do not hesitate to drink a bottle or two. Ideally, both the 1989 and 1990 vintages will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring. Given the 1989's additional flavor extraction and length, it is a 25-30-year wine. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClinet.aspWA 100 (2/1997) The 1989's aroma (believe it or not, the first bottle in the blind tasting was badly corked) jumps from the glass, offering up pure scents of flowers, black-raspberries, currants, vanillin, and truffles. Full-bodied, with a seamless texture, fabulous concentration, a massive degree of richness, but no heaviness or awkwardness, this remains one of the most profound young wines I have ever tasted. Its sweetness of fruit and layers of flavor, combined with its remarkable texture are the stuff of legends. Both of these wines are approachable (their high Merlot content ensures them softness), yet they remain largely unevolved. If readers like them young, do not hesitate to drink a bottle or two. Ideally, both the 1989 and 1990 vintages will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring. Given the 1989's additional flavor extraction and length, it is a 25-30-year wine. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClinet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClinet.aspWA 90 (2/1997): Since 1987, this estate has consistently produced one of the most concentrated and complex wines in Bordeaux. The decision by Jean-Michel Arcaute and oenologist Michel Rolland to (1) limit yields, (2) harvest physiologically ripe grapes with an element of sur-maturitie, and (3) bottle the wine without fining or filtration has resulted in a bevy of splendid wines where the terroir and varietal composition are fully expressed. A saturated plummy color is followed by a wine with considerable fat, lushness, and power. One of the most concentrated 1993s, this wine is reminiscent of the gorgeous 1987 Clinet. The 1993 offers copious amounts of jammy cassis/cherry aromas and flavors intermixed with earth, truffles, and tobacco. Smoke and licorice also make an appearance in the wine's flavor profile. This is a delicious, complex, medium to full-bodied, surprisingly top-notch effort in a so-so vintage. Anticipated maturity: now-2012.WS 90 (1/1996): Exciting and solid all the way through, showing super depth of color and character. Ripe, rich complexity and mineral, earth, currant and plum flavors. It's sweet-tasting and coats your mouth with supple and elegant tannins. A pleasure to drink now, but should improve for years. Try after 1999.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChClinet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosLesLunelles.aspWA 100 (6/2010): Now extinct, as this tiny 2.6-acre micro-vineyard was absorbed into Chateau Pavie, the 2000 La Clusiere (100% Merlot) was bestowed a perfect score seven years ago, and I see no reason to change that as it remains a monumental effort. Aromas of creme de cassis, blueberry liqueur, charcoal, licorice, and graphite are followed by a stunningly rich, full-bodied, elegant, pure, gentle giant of a wine. Approaching full maturity, it should age effortlessly for another 30+ years. Kudos to proprietor Gerard Perse.IWC 93 (6/2003): Good medium ruby. Superripe but lively aromas of kirsch and chocolate. Sweet, sappy and full, with high-toned flavors of cherry, blackberry and licorice. This offers compelling sweetness and concentration of flavor without going over the top, thanks to its firm mineral spine. Lively and very long on the finish. Bottled without filtration in February of this year.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaClusiere.aspWS 94 (4/2010): Offers sweet, dried fruits on the nose, with plum jam and Turkish delight candies. Full-bodied, with big velvety tannins and loads of fruit. Chewy and Porty. Has turned so decadent and yummy over the years. '89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now. WA 93 (2/1997): I have always thought the 1989 to be the equal of the 1990, although that was not confirmed in this particular tasting. The 1989 revealed a tighter, more backward, restrained style, without the sweet, jammy, spicy, black-cherry/raspberry component that is so pronounced in the 1990. The asterisk beside the 1989's score refers to the two bottles of the 1989 I consumed subsequent to the tasting. I did not think the wine showed as well as it could have in the fall tasting, and my subsequent tasting reinforced that view. This is a mid-ninety point La Conseillante that is very much in the style of the 1990. In comparing the two vintages, the 1989 has slightly more noticeable tannin and structure, but it is a perfumed, exotic, sweet, expansive, yummy wine that is hard to resist. The 1989 and 1990 wines represent La Conseillante's quintessential smooth as silk style, which often leads consumers to believe the wines will not last. I remember feeling the same way about the 1982 (which never tasted as stunning as either the 1989 or 1990). That wine continues to get better and better. One of the unexplainable facts of Bordeaux wine drinking is that even the softer, delicious, up-front wines can age impeccably when well-stored. Owners of the 1989 and 1990 La Conseillantes should not hesitate to enjoy them now, as well as over the next 20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChConseillante.aspWA 92 (1/1991): Typically dark and densely pigmented with no sign of browning at the edge, this big, intense, concentrated, still tannic wine has at least a decade of life left in it. The fragrant bouquet offers up scents of cedar, oriental spices, and fruitcake. It is very rich, deep, and long on the palate, with masses of ripe black fruits. An opulent beauty! Anticipated maturity: Now-2000. WS 89 (4/1996): Beautifully spicy, evolved aromas and layered flavors of fruit and cedar make this delicious to drink. Falls just short of outstanding. Has firm tannins and a lingering finish. Drink through 2002.--1961 Bordeaux horizontal.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCosdEstournel.aspMB ***[*]: Many notes. Variable. At Bob Paul's tasting of '78s at 10 years of age, it was showing well; indeed, so were quite a lot of other '78s. Looking back they were probably at their peak. Since the end of the 1980s, one corked bottle at that Conservative bastion, the Carlton Club (sign of things to come?), mellow, fragrant but faded; losing fruit, drying out but refreshing at one of my annual tastings in New York, some charm and fruit, nice weight but with lip-licking acidity and tannin. Drying out.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCosdEstournel.aspIWC 89-90 (6/1999): Very good ruby-red. Complex, expressive aromas of cassis, black cherry, licorice and animal fur. Supple but with good vinosity; ripe acids are in harmony with the wine fruit. Finishes with mouthcoating tannins and a peppery note. The top wine of St. Estephe in '97 based on my tastings this spring.WA 87 (4/2000): Forty percent of the harvest made it into this flattering, delicious wine with abundant charm and herb-tinged, blackberry and cherry fruit. A dark ruby color is accompanied by a medium-bodied, appealing St.-Estephe. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Merlot, it should drink well for 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCosdEstournel.aspIWC 89-90 (6/1999): Very good ruby-red. Complex, expressive aromas of cassis, black cherry, licorice and animal fur. Supple but with good vinosity; ripe acids are in harmony with the wine fruit. Finishes with mouthcoating tannins and a peppery note. The top wine of St. Estephe in '97 based on my tastings this spring.WA 87 (4/2000): Forty percent of the harvest made it into this flattering, delicious wine with abundant charm and herb-tinged, blackberry and cherry fruit. A dark ruby color is accompanied by a medium-bodied, appealing St.-Estephe. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Merlot, it should drink well for 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCosdEstournel.aspWS 94 (3/2004): Wonderful spice and currant aromas to this young wine. Full-bodied, with super well?integrated, refined tannins. Long caressing finish. This is very, very silky. Just like from barrel. Cos is on top of it now. Best after 2008. 17,705 cases made.WA 93 (6/2004): A beautiful effort, the 2001 Cos d’Estournel (65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot) exhibits a poised, noble bouquet of black currants, cedar, spice box, and licorice. A hint of truffles emerges as it sits in the glass. Medium-bodied with sweet fruit (mostly black) and nicely integrated wood, it builds incrementally in the mouth, ending with a 50-second finish. Drink this stylish, restrained yet substantial claret over the next 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCosdEstournel.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCosdEstournel.aspWA 95 (11/1994): The 1989 Cuvee Madame is deep, bright gold in color. This blockbuster sweet wine offers up aromas of coffee, custard, pain grille, honeyed tropical fruits, and a note coconut. Unctuously-textured, and oozing glycerin, extract, and richness, this full-bodied, yet extraordinarily well-delineated wine offers the rare combination of power and complexity. It is an amazingly thick Cuvee Madame that suffers only in comparison with its surrounding siblings. Anticipated maturity: Now-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCoutet.aspWA 95 (4/2003): Even more impressive from bottle than barrel, the 2000 Croix de Labrie is sumptuous. A sensational effort, there are only 9,000 bottles of the big, blockbuster 2000. It boasts superb purity along with the essence of cassis and black cherry liqueur-like fruit intermixed with graphite, chocolate, espresso, and new oak notes. Sweet, layered, and luxuriously rich, with a wealth of fruit and glycerin, this stunningly full-bodied St.-Emilion should be drinkable young, yet age nicely for 15+ years. Great stuff! Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020.WS 90 (3/2003): Blackberry and vanilla character, with hints of mineral. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long finish. Very fine. Best after 2006.IWC 89-91 (6/2002): Bright medium ruby. Exotic aromas of cherry, coffee and roasted oak; strong element of torrefaction. Lush, dense and minerally; fat and full. Seems more energetically extracted than the 2000 but has the density and sweetness of fruit to support it. Finishes with very ripe tannins and strong fruit. A sexy wine in the making.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChCroixdeLabrie.aspWA 95 (6/2010): This was a great sleeper of the vintage in 2000 from producer Jean-Jacques Janoueix. A 100% Merlot cuvee coming from a nearly 12-acre vineyard situated between Vieux Chateau Certan and Le Pin, the 2000 shocked a number of people at the tasting, only because they had no expectations, and had never had the wine before. It wasn’t a surprise for me. Inky blue/purple-colored, with notes of graphite, blueberry liqueur, smoke, incense, sweet licorice, and hints of chocolate fudge and spicy oak, this full-bodied, opulent, rich wine seems to just be entering its window of full maturity, where it should last for another two decades. Very impressive.WS 91 (3/2003): Interesting combination of berry and green olives on the nose. Full-bodied and silky, with ripe tannins and a long, fruity finish. Big wine. This is a Pomerol that I seldom taste, but it has plenty of stuffing. Drink now through 2010. IWC 88-91 (6/2001): Full ruby. Sexy, rather Burgundian aromas of creamy raspberry, cherry, leather and smoky oak. Opulent, thick and sweet; fleshy and impressive. A rather powerful style of Pomerol, finishing with big, ripe tannins and impressive length. A real attention-grabber.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaCroixdeStGeorges.aspWA 95 (6/2010): This was a great sleeper of the vintage in 2000 from producer Jean-Jacques Janoueix. A 100% Merlot cuvee coming from a nearly 12-acre vineyard situated between Vieux Chateau Certan and Le Pin, the 2000 shocked a number of people at the tasting, only because they had no expectations, and had never had the wine before. It wasn’t a surprise for me. Inky blue/purple-colored, with notes of graphite, blueberry liqueur, smoke, incense, sweet licorice, and hints of chocolate fudge and spicy oak, this full-bodied, opulent, rich wine seems to just be entering its window of full maturity, where it should last for another two decades. Very impressive.WS 91 (3/2003): Interesting combination of berry and green olives on the nose. Full-bodied and silky, with ripe tannins and a long, fruity finish. Big wine. This is a Pomerol that I seldom taste, but it has plenty of stuffing. Drink now through 2010. IWC 88-91 (6/2001): Full ruby. Sexy, rather Burgundian aromas of creamy raspberry, cherry, leather and smoky oak. Opulent, thick and sweet; fleshy and impressive. A rather powerful style of Pomerol, finishing with big, ripe tannins and impressive length. A real attention-grabber.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaCroixdeStGeorges.aspWA 92 (4/2006): Proprietor Christian Dauriac, who produced his finest wine to date in 2003, is ratcheting up the quality level at this 20-acre estate planted with 66% Merlot and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon on the limestone hillsides of the St.-Hippolyte commune in St.-Emilion. The renowned Michel Rolland is Destieux’s winemaking consultant. A sleeper of the vintage, the 2003 offers a sexy concoction of jammy black cherries intermixed with blueberries, blackberries, charcoal, toasty oak, and barrique. It is a flamboyant offering with great fruit and purity as well as a full-bodied unctuosity that cascades over the palate. The low acidity and lofty alcohol (13.5%) provides an early accessibility that allows the wine to be drunk now or cellared for 12-15+ years. Very impressive.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDestieux.aspWA 89 (4/1995): The 1988 is the lightest of the 1988, 1989 and 1990 vintages. It has medium body and a fragrant pineapple, peach, and apple-scented nose, with a honeysuckle component that adds complexity. The wine is crisp, dry, and ideal for drinking now and over the next 10 years.WS 89 (12/2009): Bright yellow color. Very fresh, with sliced pineapple and cream aromas that follow through to a full body, with fresh acidity and a medium-sweet, honey, apricot and citrus fruit aftertaste.'88/'98 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2008). Drink now.IWC 83 (8/1998): Pale color. Reticent, delicate aromas of peach and apricot skin. Slightly viscous on entry, but ultimately rather skinny, with the alcohol (15.1%) showing today. Lacks fat and real length. Not especially sweet.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDoisyDaene.aspWA 96 (4/2008): (no note given)IWC 95 (8/2008): Pale yellow-gold. Deep, brooding, nobly rotten aromas of apricot, pineapple, spices, honey, truffle and game. Fat, thick and honeyed, with a softer and more unctuous texture than the 2007. But the exhilarating notes of musky brown spices give a magically light touch to the palate-staining fruit flavors of pineapple syrup and apricot. Finishes wonderfully sweet and long, with a texture of liquid silk.WS 95-100 (6/2006): Ultrarich and powerful sweetie. Full-bodied yet refined with lemon-lime and apple pie character. Very long finish. Very sweet. Very seductive.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDoisyDaene.aspWA 92 (3/1997): For sheer elegance, charm, and finesse, the 1985 Ducru-Beaucaillou has it all. The wine is close to full maturity, yet retains a vibrancy and youthfulness that is unusual for a 1985. The generous flavors are soft, but not flabby. The wine possesses outstanding concentration yet is elegant and refreshing. This is a beautifully knit, harmonious Ducru. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDucru-Beaucaillou.aspWS 82 (8/2000): A pleasant red but slightly papery, with mineral, berry and cardboard aromas. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium, papery finish.--1990 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now. 17,000 cases made.MB ***[*]: First noted in October 1994 at a British Airways tasting for Concorde: opaque; unknit, slightly woody; full but severe- a long haul wine in both senses. Two months later, at the MW tasting, slight woodiness noted again but easier on the palate. At a pre-sale tasting in January 1999, still' 'unknit', good body, tannic. Four months later, still deep and intense, but its cedary nose a bit raw, 'not on top form'. Nevertheless, on the palate quite shapely, 'well-mannered', but something missing. A rather disappointing Ducru. WA [nr] (11/1996): Many bottles of 1990 Ducru-Beaucaillou have exhibited a damp, musty, cardboard component in the nose that obliterated the wine's fruit. The color was a healthy deep ruby/purple, and the wine possessed moderate weight and length, but, as I have written in the past, too many bottles seem musty, giving the impression of being corked. Interestingly, a bottle served at a friend's house on New Year's Day was unquestionably a 90-point wine, exhibiting no off aromas. Last tasted 11/96. Fortunately, this was the last year for the musty problem in Ducru's wines.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDucru-Beaucaillou.aspWS 97 (3/2006): Intense aromas of blackberry, currant and cherry. Full-bodied, with masses of big, velvety tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. A blockbuster. A classic big, juicy claret. Best after 2012. 17,500 cases made.WA 96 (4/2006): One of the most compelling Ducru Beaucaillou’s made in the last quarter century is the 2003 (which is also the first vintage to be packaged in an impressive heavy glass bottle with a special long cork). A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot, it is a powerful, tannic, blockbuster effort revealing a liqueur of mineral-like component intermixed with creme de cassis, raspberry, and flower characteristics, and an atypically high 13.5% alcohol. Having firmed up considerably since bottling, it exhibits tremendous definition, weight, and concentration. It is a wine for patient connoisseurs. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025+. A brilliant tour de force!IWC 92 (6/2006): Ruby-red. Sexy nose offers superripe currant, raspberry, graphite and coconut. Lush, very rich and fine-grained, with an almost confectionery sweetness and thickness for this St. Julien. Atypically powerful on the back end, but not hard. Bruno Borie took over direction of this property with the 2003 and immediately switched to a heavier bottle with a longer neck that could accommodate a 55-millimeter cork. A terrific showing-but I'd still give this wine another four or five years of aging.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDucru-Beaucaillou.aspWS 97 (3/2006): Intense aromas of blackberry, currant and cherry. Full-bodied, with masses of big, velvety tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. A blockbuster. A classic big, juicy claret. Best after 2012. 17,500 cases made.WA 96 (4/2006): One of the most compelling Ducru Beaucaillou’s made in the last quarter century is the 2003 (which is also the first vintage to be packaged in an impressive heavy glass bottle with a special long cork). A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot, it is a powerful, tannic, blockbuster effort revealing a liqueur of mineral-like component intermixed with creme de cassis, raspberry, and flower characteristics, and an atypically high 13.5% alcohol. Having firmed up considerably since bottling, it exhibits tremendous definition, weight, and concentration. It is a wine for patient connoisseurs. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025+. A brilliant tour de force!IWC 92 (6/2006): Ruby-red. Sexy nose offers superripe currant, raspberry, graphite and coconut. Lush, very rich and fine-grained, with an almost confectionery sweetness and thickness for this St. Julien. Atypically powerful on the back end, but not hard. Bruno Borie took over direction of this property with the 2003 and immediately switched to a heavier bottle with a longer neck that could accommodate a 55-millimeter cork. A terrific showing-but I'd still give this wine another four or five years of aging.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDucru-Beaucaillou.aspWS 97 (3/2006): Intense aromas of blackberry, currant and cherry. Full-bodied, with masses of big, velvety tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. A blockbuster. A classic big, juicy claret. Best after 2012. 17,500 cases made.WA 96 (4/2006): One of the most compelling Ducru Beaucaillou’s made in the last quarter century is the 2003 (which is also the first vintage to be packaged in an impressive heavy glass bottle with a special long cork). A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot, it is a powerful, tannic, blockbuster effort revealing a liqueur of mineral-like component intermixed with creme de cassis, raspberry, and flower characteristics, and an atypically high 13.5% alcohol. Having firmed up considerably since bottling, it exhibits tremendous definition, weight, and concentration. It is a wine for patient connoisseurs. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025+. A brilliant tour de force!IWC 92 (6/2006): Ruby-red. Sexy nose offers superripe currant, raspberry, graphite and coconut. Lush, very rich and fine-grained, with an almost confectionery sweetness and thickness for this St. Julien. Atypically powerful on the back end, but not hard. Bruno Borie took over direction of this property with the 2003 and immediately switched to a heavier bottle with a longer neck that could accommodate a 55-millimeter cork. A terrific showing-but I'd still give this wine another four or five years of aging.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDucru-Beaucaillou.aspWA 88 (2/1993): The 1989 has an intense bouquet of creamy blackcurrant fruit and exotic spices. There is even a touch of the famous Pauillac lead-pencil smell. Medium-bodied, rich and alcoholic, this voluptuous-styled wine has all the components necessary to seduce tasters for the next 8-12 years. Anticipated maturity: 1994- 2008.MB *** (12/1998): No tasting notehttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDuhartMilon.aspWA 88 (4/2002): This attractive dark ruby-colored, well-balanced, medium-bodied 1999 exhibits notes of underbrush, cassis liqueur, and dried herbs. The wine possesses finesse, harmony, and copious fruit. It can be consumed now and over the next 13-14 years.IWC 88 (6/2002): Bright ruby-red. Complex aromas of raw currant, minerals, cured tobacco and smoky oak. Dense and minerally but taut and dry. Has good extract. Persistent and rather aromatic on the slightly dry-edged finish, with a fragrant note of woodsmoke.WS 87 (12/2010): Offers nice chocolate, coffee and plum aromas. Medium-bodied, with wood, chocolate and fruit flavors and a medium finish. New wood starting to dominate now.—'89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now. 25,830 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDuhartMilon.aspWA 92+ (4/2006): Consumers should take note as this estate is clearly benefiting from increased attention from the Rothschilds. The 2003 may be the finest Duhart-Milon made ... ever! A blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot, it boasts a deep ruby/purple hue in addition to a big, sweet perfume of black fruits interwoven with roasted herbs and meat juice offered in a muscular, full-bodied style. Full-bodied, dense, and well-structured, this stunning cuvee is best consumed between 2010-2030.WS 92 (3/2006): Blackberry with toasted oak and coffee aromas. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Lovely texture to this wine. Dense and refined. Very tight right now. One of the best I have tasted from this estate. Best after 2009. 20,000 cases made. IWC 88-91 (6/2004): Bright ruby-red. Blackcurrant, blueberry, black cherry, violet, tobacco, fresh herbs and currant leaf on the slightly medicinal, quintessential cabernet nose. Then broad, fat and rich, with a layered texture and enticing sweetness. Showing its cabernet side today, but this is thoroughly ripe, seamless cabernet.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDuhartMilon.aspWA 92+ (4/2006): Consumers should take note as this estate is clearly benefiting from increased attention from the Rothschilds. The 2003 may be the finest Duhart-Milon made ... ever! A blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot, it boasts a deep ruby/purple hue in addition to a big, sweet perfume of black fruits interwoven with roasted herbs and meat juice offered in a muscular, full-bodied style. Full-bodied, dense, and well-structured, this stunning cuvee is best consumed between 2010-2030.WS 92 (3/2006): Blackberry with toasted oak and coffee aromas. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Lovely texture to this wine. Dense and refined. Very tight right now. One of the best I have tasted from this estate. Best after 2009. 20,000 cases made. IWC 88-91 (6/2004): Bright ruby-red. Blackcurrant, blueberry, black cherry, violet, tobacco, fresh herbs and currant leaf on the slightly medicinal, quintessential cabernet nose. Then broad, fat and rich, with a layered texture and enticing sweetness. Showing its cabernet side today, but this is thoroughly ripe, seamless cabernet.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDuhartMilon.aspWA 94 (5/2011): A magnificent sleeper of the vintage, the 2008 Duhart Milon is the shrewd consumer’s wine to purchase by the case as prices do not yet reflect its qualitative resurgence. Composed of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot that came in at 13.09% alcohol, it is a surprisingly intense effort displaying a marvelous texture, plenty of black currant, licorice, unsmoked cigar tobacco and earthy characteristics, a full-bodied mouthfeel and stunning purity as well as density. Enjoy this top-notch 2008 over the next 20-25 years.WS 89 (3/2011): Mint, sage and tobacco lead the way, backed by supple black cherry, roasted plum and dark currant notes. Flashes of game and roasted herb flitter in on the lightly roasted finish. Drink now through 2017. 22,000 cases made.IWC 88-90 (6/2009): (73% cabernet sauvignon and 27% merlot) Saturated ruby-purple. Delicate aromas of blueberry and cedar are complicated by hints of graphite and tobacco. Delicate on the palate as well, with pretty black currant and cedar flavors. This wonderfully balanced midweight offers sneaky concentration and great precision to its classic, cabernet-dominated flavors, not to mention a long, smooth finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDuhartMilon.aspWA 92 (2/2009): It is no longer an insider’s secret that the investments made by the Rothschild family (of Lafite) in Duhart Milon are paying big dividends. A shrewd Pauillac lover’s delight, it possesses exceptional quality, yet the price remains fair. This blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, only 50% made it into the final blend, displays some of Lafite’s classic notes of lead pencil shavings, cedar, and black currants along with more earthy, roasted herb, and spice box characteristics. Rich, full-bodied, dense, and already approachable, it should evolve easily for two decades. Good value.WS 89 (3/2009): Offers dried currant on the nose, with herbal undertones. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Best after 2013. 23,665 cases made.IWC 88 (6/2009): Good full medium red. Aromas of plum, smoked meat, iron and rose. Supple and broad, with a restrained sweetness to the flavors of plum, smoke and meat. Seems to gain in sweetness toward the back, finishing with good breadth and length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDuhartMilonRothschild.aspWA 97 (2/1996): I would argue that the most exciting wines of the twentieth century are the 1947 Pomerols. Although the 1947s from Petrus and Lafleur (both perfect wines) were not included in the Rodenstock tasting, the wines tasted exemplify the number of exhilarating, decadent, and sumptuous wines produced by this tiny appellation.Another nectar from Pomerol, the 1947 L'Evangile can be a 100-point wine, but in this tasting it was beaten out by the amazing 1947 Latour a Pomerol and L'Eglise-Clinet. An awesome bottle of wine - thick, jammy, and full-bodied, with extraordinary intensity, power, purity, and layers of black fruits, truffles, and cedar, it represents the quintessential style of L'Evangile. It should last for another 15-20 years. The notes for this wine are taken from the description of Series III - Flight A of the 1995 tasting conducted in Munich by Helga and Hardy Rodenstock. Many years after the tasting from which this note derives allegations were made concerning the authenticity of old and rare bottles of wine sold by Hardy Rodenstock to collectors around the world. The matter has been the subject of numerous articles, litigation and at least one book. Mr. Parker believes that the wines served to him at this tasting were authentic so this note and the others from that specific tasting continue to be posted on eRobertParker.com.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLEvangile.aspWA 95 (6/2000): Dark plum-colored with purple nuances, this complex 1982 reveals notions of cedar, allspice, black raspberries, blackberries, and currants. Expansive on the palate, with superb density, low acidity, full body, and a juicy, fat, mouth-staining mid-palate, this youthful Pomerol is approaching full maturity. Powerful and concentrated, it will evolve effortlessly for another 15-20 years.IWC 95 (8/2002): The bottle in the blind flight was corked. Second bottle: Impressively saturated dark red. Exotic, slightly candied aromas of raspberry liqueur, roasted meat, coffee and chocolate. Wonderfully sweet and mouthfilling, but the wine underlying minerality adds to the impression of lift and grip. Spreads out impressively to saturate the palate. A compelling example of this wine, finishing with strong but fine tannins and terrific verve. But the '61 is even richer. Drink now through 2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLEvangile.aspWA 95 (6/2000): Dark plum-colored with purple nuances, this complex 1982 reveals notions of cedar, allspice, black raspberries, blackberries, and currants. Expansive on the palate, with superb density, low acidity, full body, and a juicy, fat, mouth-staining mid-palate, this youthful Pomerol is approaching full maturity. Powerful and concentrated, it will evolve effortlessly for another 15-20 years.IWC 95 (8/2002): The bottle in the blind flight was corked. Second bottle: Impressively saturated dark red. Exotic, slightly candied aromas of raspberry liqueur, roasted meat, coffee and chocolate. Wonderfully sweet and mouthfilling, but the wine underlying minerality adds to the impression of lift and grip. Spreads out impressively to saturate the palate. A compelling example of this wine, finishing with strong but fine tannins and terrific verve. But the '61 is even richer. Drink now through 2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLEvangile.aspWA 96 (4/2003): This fabulous L'Evangile rivals such recent great vintages as 1998, 1995, 1990, and of course, 1982. With aeration, the thick, unctuous, saturated purple color is followed by scents of blueberries, blackberries, truffles, acacia flowers, tar, and graphite. Full-bodied, with tremendous opulence, intensity, and purity as well as silky tannin and a long, powerful, concentrated finish, with a hint of cocoa/chocolate, I initially thought this was a modern-day clone of the 1975, but now I am not so sure. The 2000 is a prodigious, intense, powerful offering, but the tannins are clearly sweeter than those of the controversial 1975. I kept a bottle of this wine open for 11 days, re-corking each evening after pouring an ounce or two for evaluation. The wine simply refused to oxidize, hitting its stride on day 3, and then beginning to drop some fruit by day 8. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030+.WS 96 (3/2003): Great concentration to this wine. Yet harmonious and classy. The ripe fruit and toasted oak jumps out of the glass in this one. Full-bodied, with an opulent fruit, coffee and milk chocolate character. Velvety and round textured. Best after 2010. 2,800 cases made.IWC 92-95 (6/2001): Saturated ruby. Superripe aromas of black and red fruits and dark chocolate; almost but not quite pruney. Then pliant, sweet and lush, with explosive black raspberry fruit and lots of early personality. This is downright hedonistic and deceptively soft. Finishes very long and ripe, with extremely fine tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLEvangile.aspWA 96 (4/2003): This fabulous L'Evangile rivals such recent great vintages as 1998, 1995, 1990, and of course, 1982. With aeration, the thick, unctuous, saturated purple color is followed by scents of blueberries, blackberries, truffles, acacia flowers, tar, and graphite. Full-bodied, with tremendous opulence, intensity, and purity as well as silky tannin and a long, powerful, concentrated finish, with a hint of cocoa/chocolate, I initially thought this was a modern-day clone of the 1975, but now I am not so sure. The 2000 is a prodigious, intense, powerful offering, but the tannins are clearly sweeter than those of the controversial 1975. I kept a bottle of this wine open for 11 days, re-corking each evening after pouring an ounce or two for evaluation. The wine simply refused to oxidize, hitting its stride on day 3, and then beginning to drop some fruit by day 8. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030+.WS 96 (3/2003): Great concentration to this wine. Yet harmonious and classy. The ripe fruit and toasted oak jumps out of the glass in this one. Full-bodied, with an opulent fruit, coffee and milk chocolate character. Velvety and round textured. Best after 2010. 2,800 cases made.IWC 92-95 (6/2001): Saturated ruby. Superripe aromas of black and red fruits and dark chocolate; almost but not quite pruney. Then pliant, sweet and lush, with explosive black raspberry fruit and lots of early personality. This is downright hedonistic and deceptively soft. Finishes very long and ripe, with extremely fine tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLEvangile.aspWS 100 (3/2008): (Wine Spectator #21 wine of 2008) Dark in color, almost purple black, with pure tapenade and hints of ripe plum and berry. Full-bodied, with layer upon layer of velvety tannins and chocolate, berry, vanilla and tea flavors. Lasts for minutes. I am blown away by this wine. This has been amazing since the moment I tasted it from barrel. Reminds me of the superb 1950. Best after 2015. 3,500 cases made. WA 95 (4/2008): L’Evangile’s sublime 2005, a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, is the first wine made in their brand new cuverie. Sadly, there are fewer than 3,500 cases of this deep purple-colored offering. A gorgeous nose of meat juices, black raspberries, chocolate, espresso, and notions of truffle oil as well as smoke is followed by a full-bodied Pomerol displaying sweet tannin, a flawless texture, and stunning complexity. While surprisingly showy and forward for a l’Evangile, it will undoubtedly shut down over the next year or so. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030. iwc 94 (6/2008): Good deep red-ruby. Knockout nose combines black raspberry, plum, minerals, truffle and smoked meat, complicated by torrefaction notes of coffee and chocolate; very ripe but not at all roasted. Enters sweet and silky, with an almost weightless impression, then saturates the palate with seamless flavors of dark berries, minerals and cocoa powder. Finishes long and fresh, with sophisticated, fine-grained tannins and piquant minerality. A beauty.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLEvangile.aspWS 94 (1/1997): This is really a wild wine. Emits wonderful aromas of orange peel, dried fruits and honey, and is full-bodied and incredibly concentrated, with fine acidity and a long, zingy, sweet aftertaste. Best after 2000.MB ***[*] (11/2001): Delicious with West Country cheeses taming its youthful aggressiveness at Gidleigh Park in Devon in 1997. Pale gold; fragrant, lanolin and mint leaf; sweet but on the lean side, delicious vanilla and honey flavour.IWC 92+ (8/1998): Fairly deep gold-tinged color. Superripe aromas of pineapple, cooked apple, honey and white raisin. Huge, thick and three-dimensional; shows a powerfully honeyed character and deep peachy fruit in the mouth. Almost aggressively young today, with the chewy character and uncanny richness shown by a number of these '90s. Slight heat and a note of mint on the very strong back end. This will require another five to seven years to reach its full potential and should be long-lived.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdeFargues.aspWS 94 (1/1997): This is really a wild wine. Emits wonderful aromas of orange peel, dried fruits and honey, and is full-bodied and incredibly concentrated, with fine acidity and a long, zingy, sweet aftertaste. Best after 2000.MB ***[*] (11/2001): Delicious with West Country cheeses taming its youthful aggressiveness at Gidleigh Park in Devon in 1997. Pale gold; fragrant, lanolin and mint leaf; sweet but on the lean side, delicious vanilla and honey flavour.IWC 92+ (8/1998): Fairly deep gold-tinged color. Superripe aromas of pineapple, cooked apple, honey and white raisin. Huge, thick and three-dimensional; shows a powerfully honeyed character and deep peachy fruit in the mouth. Almost aggressively young today, with the chewy character and uncanny richness shown by a number of these '90s. Slight heat and a note of mint on the very strong back end. This will require another five to seven years to reach its full potential and should be long-lived.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdeFargues.aspWA 94-96 (6/2004): Still in barrel, this Chateau d’Yquem look-alike exhibits powerful creme brulee characteristics along with some volatile acidity, huge, full-bodied, unctuously textured flavors, ample intensity as well as purity, and caramelized tropical fruits. This brawny heavyweight requires 5-6 years of bottle age, and should evolve for three decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdeFargues.aspJR 17.5 (12/2006): Mid gold, very full and rich. Real tension and racy and liquid honey. Very, very exciting. Still slightly astringent. Much better than the '03.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdeFargues.aspWS 95-100 (6/2006): This is very concentrated with dried pineapple, honey and caramel. Full-bodied and superdense. Like honey. Massive. From the former head and part owner of Yquem. WA 93-95 (4/2008): (no note)IWC 92 (8/2008): Medium yellow. Exotic, high-toned apricot, spices and flowers on the nose, complemented by coconutty, toasty oak. Very sweet and unctuous, with exotic, nobly rotten flavors of pineapple, apricot and coconut and an impression of elevated alcohol. Not quite as racy, fruity or structured as the 2007; conveys an impression of softer acidity, and yet this maintains a light touch. Finishes with suggestions of vanilla and marzipan.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdeFargues.aspWA 91 (4/2003): This is a big time sleeper of the vintage as well as one of the vintage's most attractively priced wines. Faugeres has turned out an opaque black/purple-colored 2000 displaying aromas of ink, blackberry liqueur, licorice, and toasty oak. Seamless, rich, and full-bodied, with even more weight and length than it revealed prior to bottling, it is a reasonably-priced, serious wine that merits attention from consumers. Delicious stuff! Anticipated maturity: 2004-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChFaugeres.aspWA 87 (1/1998): Several bottles tasted since the last edition of this book have shown the 1970 to be the finest Fieuzal produced during the decade of the seventies. The wine possesses a garnet color with noticeable rust at the edge. The provocative, open-knit nose of tobacco smoke, red currants, and herbs is followed by a medium-bodied, round wine with savory flavors. There are no hard edges, bitterness, excessive dryness, or austerity in the wine's moderately long finish. Anticipated maturity: Now-2002.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChdeFieuzal.aspWA 91 (4/2003): A saturated purple color is followed by a gorgeous perfume of ink, plum, cassis, licorice, smoke, and espresso. Dense, full-bodied, and opulent, offering a hedonistic as well as intellectual turn-on, it should drink well for 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaFleurdeBouard.aspWA 99 (6/2010): A tremendous achievement by Hubert de Bouard, the 2000 La Plus de la Fleur de Bouard (a 420-case luxury cuvee) is a blend of 80% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Franc and a dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Filled with richness and intensity, with elegance, harmony, and poise, it is one of the top wines of the vintage. Sadly, very little is available. Approachable, with a velvety texture as well as abundant notes of blueberries, coffee, black currants, kirsch, smoke, and licorice, it is a massive, rich (but not heavy) wine that should drink well for another 10-15 years. WS 92 (3/2003): Super quality. Black color, with violet, crushed berry and tar. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a gorgeous, silky texture. Long finish. A super cuvée from this estate. From the manager of Angélus. Best after 2006. 290 cases made. IWC 91 (6/2003): (bottled in March of 2003) Medium ruby-red. Nose conveys a roasted ripeness, offering jammy dark berries, kirsch, chocolatey oak and a suggestion of menthol. Fat and sweet on entry, then quite powerful in the middle and closed on the finish. The huge tannins saturate the cheeks and teeth. With its 14.6% alcohol, this very long, superripe wine could hold its own alongside a very ripe Napa Valley cabernet. If the 2001 brings most of its color and stuffing into the bottle, it will surpass this big boy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaFleurdeBouard.aspIWC 91 (6/2003): (bottled in March of 2003) Medium ruby-red. Nose conveys a roasted ripeness, offering jammy dark berries, kirsch, chocolatey oak and a suggestion of menthol. Fat and sweet on entry, then quite powerful in the middle and closed on the finish. The huge tannins saturate the cheeks and teeth. With its 14.6% alcohol, this very long, superripe wine could hold its own alongside a very ripe Napa Valley cabernet. If the 2001 brings most of its color and stuffing into the bottle, it will surpass this big boy. WA 90+ (4/2006): The 2003 Le Plus smells like a chocolate fudge sundae with notes of caramel, chocolate, vanilla, blackberries, and sweet cherry jam. Possessing great depth and plenty of flesh as well as some heavy duty tannins, it should drink well between 2008-2023. This cuvee tips the scales at 14% natural alcohol.WS 90 (12/2007): Fantastic aromas of crushed berry, toasted oak and licorice. Full-bodied, round and velvety, with lots of flavor and a medium finish. Needs time to develop. Big and rich in a new-wave style. Best after 2008. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaFleurdeBouard.aspMB ***[*]: Much preferred to its almost name-sake above. Two recent notes: deep; gloriously sweet, uplifting bouquet; full-bodied, very rich, almost perfect- but very tannic. I would rather bet on this than the La Fleur.WA 90 (2/1996): In this particular flight of 1975s, La Fleur-Petrus was overwhelmed by the competition. It is an outstanding, more restrained style of wine that is still a youthful, healthy dark ruby/purple color with slight amber at the edge. The nose is more restrained and less exuberant than in the other 1975s tasted. Sweet berry fruit is complemented by earth and new oak scents. Medium-bodied, stylish, and concentrated, with forceful tannin, and enough fruit, glycerin, and extract to support further aging, this youthful, delicious wine can be drunk over the next 10-15 years. The notes for this wine are taken from the description of Series I of the 1995 tasting conducted in Munich by Helga and Hardy Rodenstock.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaFleurPetrus.aspWA 87 (4/2003): While there is some compression in the finish as well as high tannin that seems slightly out of place, this is one of Fonbadet's finest efforts in many years. Medium-bodied and competently made, it possesses sweet red and black currant fruit intermixed with smoke, licorice, and earth. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2012.WS 79 (12/2003): Some decent fruit, but turns a bit herbal and aggressive. Needs food. 4,165 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChFonbadet.aspWA 90 (4/2006): Fontenil is the home estate of the brilliant husband and wife oenologists, Michel and Dany Rolland. The authoritative, dark ruby/purple-tinged 2003 Fontenil offers hints of plums, blackberries, blueberries, charcoal, and smoke in its ripe, dense, moderately tannic personality. Give this broad, savory, full-bodied effort 2-3 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 12-14 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChFontenil.aspWS 87 (8/1991): Offers pleasant, mature cedar, currant, herb and bell pepper flavors that hang together quite well. The firm tannins are softening, but there's still plenty of depth and intensity. Nearing maturity. Drink now to 1998.WA 84 (4/1991): Latour made one of the lightest wines I have ever tasted from this property in this very good vintage. Not surprisingly, their second wine is also forward. Soft, with only medium body, and a surprisingly short, undistinguished finish, this smooth, lightweight Latour should be drunk over the next 5-6 years. Anticipated maturity: Now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.aspWS 90 (12/2007): Intense aromas of crushed blackberries and cassis. Full-bodied, with ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Long. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs to develop.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2008. IWC 89+ (6/1998): Very unforthcoming on the nose; opened to show a whiff of shoe polish. Also quite closed in on itself in the mouth; hints of black cherry and dark chocolate. Rather powerfully structured and tough to taste today, but conveys an impression of of excellent concentration. As I noted last year, the substantial tannins coat the insides of the cheeks. May ultimately merit a 90+ rating.WA 89 (2/1998): Latour's second wine, Forts de Latour, is now one of the two or three finest second wines of Bordeaux (Bahans-Haut-Brion and the Clos du Marquis of Leoville Las-Cases are two other personal favorites). The terrific, dark ruby/purple-colored 1995 possesses a sweet, jammy black fruit-scented nose intertwined with smoky minerals, earth, and spicy oak. The wine is surprisingly thick and rich in the mouth, with its glycerin and concentration of fruit largely concealing the moderate tannin. This excellent, sweet wine is less powerful, but more accessible than the 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.aspWA 91 (4/2003): A brilliant Forts de Latour, the 2000 boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with a vibrant nose of black currants intermixed with minerals, tobacco, and spice box. Medium to full-bodied, with loads of glycerin and fat (that nearly obscure some serious tannin), it will be drinkable between 2007-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.aspWA 92 (4/2005): A classic second wine that shows outstanding potential, the dark ruby/purple-colored 2002 has notes of cedar wood, black currants, earth, and truffles in a medium to full-bodied, supple-textured, beautifully concentrated style that can be drunk now or cellared for 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.aspWA 92 (4/2005): A classic second wine that shows outstanding potential, the dark ruby/purple-colored 2002 has notes of cedar wood, black currants, earth, and truffles in a medium to full-bodied, supple-textured, beautifully concentrated style that can be drunk now or cellared for 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.aspWS 93 (3/2006): Beautiful aromas of berry, currant and toasted oak. Intense currant character. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, intense finish. This is very structured and superclean. Excellent stuff. The second wine of Latour. Best after 2011. 7,000 cases made.WA 92 (4/2006): The 2003 Les Forts de la Tour possesses a dense ruby/plum/purple color in addition to notions of cold steel, lead pencil shavings, and creme de cassis. Full-bodied, opulent, heady, rich, and lush, it can be drunk now or cellared for 15+ years. What can one say about proprietor Francois Pinault and his manager, Frederic Engerer? A strong argument can be made that in 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004, Latour produced the wine of the vintage, although it has plenty of competition in the Northern Medoc in 2003. Moreover, the bargains are the estate’s least expensive cuvee, Pauillac, followed by Les Forts de Latour, Latour’s second wine which continues to increase in quality.IWC 91 (6/2006): Deep ruby-red. Wonderfully vinous and sappy for the vintage, with aromas of redcurrant, mineral and spice. Sweet, rich, lush and exotic but with good spice character giving lift to the flavors. A very fine-grained wine that will give relatively early pleasure, but it can't match the 2004 or 2005 for backbone. Finishes dry and classic, with plenty of richness.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.aspIWC 91 (6/2007): Deep red. Aromas of blueberry, plum, leather, tobacco and mocha. Sweet, plummy and pliant, with a creamy, fine-grained texture for the vintage. Very plush wine, richer than the 2006 and at least as long. Finishes with big but ripe tannins. WA 90 (6/2007): The estate’s second wine continues to go from strength to strength. The 2004 Forts de Latour (includes 75% Cabernet Sauvignon) reveals a deep ruby/purple hue, classic evolved cedary, lead pencil, and cassis characteristics, medium body, beautiful sweetness of fruit, and a more forward, evolved character than its big sibling. Enjoy it over the next 15+ years.WS 90 (3/2007): Lots of mineral, currant and berries on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. A bit austere, but there's enough stuffing to back it up. Best after 2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.aspIWC 91 (6/2007): Deep red. Aromas of blueberry, plum, leather, tobacco and mocha. Sweet, plummy and pliant, with a creamy, fine-grained texture for the vintage. Very plush wine, richer than the 2006 and at least as long. Finishes with big but ripe tannins. WA 90 (6/2007): The estate’s second wine continues to go from strength to strength. The 2004 Forts de Latour (includes 75% Cabernet Sauvignon) reveals a deep ruby/purple hue, classic evolved cedary, lead pencil, and cassis characteristics, medium body, beautiful sweetness of fruit, and a more forward, evolved character than its big sibling. Enjoy it over the next 15+ years.WS 90 (3/2007): Lots of mineral, currant and berries on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. A bit austere, but there's enough stuffing to back it up. Best after 2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesFortsdeLatour.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChFougasMaldoror.aspWA 91 (2/2009): Although not quite the blockbuster I expected from the barrel samples I tasted, this is, nevertheless, an outstanding effort from a vineyard situated next to the garagiste superstar, Le Pin. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by sumptuous aromas of truffles, chocolate, kirsch, fig, coffee, and toasty oak. Deep and full-bodied with a broad, savory mouthfeel, and a layered finish, this beauty will provide pleasure over the next 15-20 years. Kudos to Jean-Philippe Janoueix!WS 91 (6/2009): Sweet berry and milk chocolate aromas lead to a full body, with a solid core of ripe berries and a velvety texture. There's a pretty structure to this. Best after 2011. 1,500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaCroixStGeorges.aspWA 91 (2/2009): Although not quite the blockbuster I expected from the barrel samples I tasted, this is, nevertheless, an outstanding effort from a vineyard situated next to the garagiste superstar, Le Pin. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by sumptuous aromas of truffles, chocolate, kirsch, fig, coffee, and toasty oak. Deep and full-bodied with a broad, savory mouthfeel, and a layered finish, this beauty will provide pleasure over the next 15-20 years. Kudos to Jean-Philippe Janoueix!WS 91 (6/2009): Sweet berry and milk chocolate aromas lead to a full body, with a solid core of ripe berries and a velvety texture. There's a pretty structure to this. Best after 2011. 1,500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaCroixStGeorges.aspWA 96 (6/2010): Two recent tastings of the 2000 La Gomerie both reinforced my comments of seven years ago. An interesting thing about this 100% Merlot is how well it ages. Perhaps it deserves more attention. Its dense purple color is followed by a beautiful perfume of spring flowers, creme de cassis, jammy black cherries, licorice, graphite, and espresso roast. Full-bodied, deep, superbly concentrated, pure, long, and made in a modern style, it should drink well for another decade.IWC 92 (6/2003): Full medium ruby. Exotic, slightly candied aromas of roasted raspberry, musky espresso, earth, smoke, coffee bean and sweet, nutty oak. Superripe, lush and fat; at once chewy and velvety, with superb depth of flavor. Sweet, sappy flavors of black cherry and licorice nicely firmed by underlying minerality. Finishes long and subtle, with substantial but fine tannins and excellent vinosity. A lovely expression of merlot and a great success for this tiny property. WS 92 (3/2003): Super, well-crafted wine. This shows wonderful blackberry and mint aromas that follow through to a full-bodied palate, with soft and silky tannins and a long, fruity aftertaste. Best after 2008.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaGomerie.aspWA 91 (6/2007): The Becot family own this garagiste operation planted with 100% Merlot, and the impressively constituted La Gomerie is always one of the more flamboyant and exotic wines of St.-Emilion. In some ways, it is similar to the famed Pomerol, Le Pin. The dark ruby/purple-colored 2004 exhibits aromas of strawberry and black cherry confiture, notions of espresso roast, pain grille, and spice box, medium to full body, excellent purity, and a sexy personality. It is a fleshy, heady effort meant to be consumed during its first 10-14 years of life.WS 88 (3/2007): Aromas of flowers and blackberry follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a caressing finish. Needs a bit more of a center palate. I prefer Bécot in this vintage. Best from 2010 through 2015. 960 cases made.IWC 89 (6/2007): Medium red-ruby. Musky plum, redcurrant and mocha on the nose; very merlot! Broad, round and silky but not yet filled in. There's a chocolatey ripeness here, but today the wine is hiding its sweetness. Finishes with building tannins and moderate grip.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaGomerie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrandCorbin.aspWA 89 (4/2001): This impressive cuvee from proprietor J. C. Beton exhibits a dark ruby/purple color in addition to aromas of blackberries, cassis, earth, truffles, and spicy oak. Lush and voluptuously-textured, it reveals low acidity, excellent depth, and a long, fleshy finish. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrandOrmeau.aspWA 92 (4/2003): Quality has exploded in 2000, offering an extra dimension in both aromas and flavors. A blend of 75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon produced from modest yields of 30 hectoliters per hectare, this opaque purple-colored, fat, ripe, exotic, flamboyant effort (coffee, plums, vanilla, and sweet black cherries galore) is a St.-Emilion fruit-boMB ***[*]: Very intense aromas of minerals and crushed berries, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with super silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Sleek wine. Greatest wine ever from this estate. Best after 2008. 3,750 cases made.IWC 87-89 (6/2002): Saturated ruby. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, minerals, mocha and tobacco. Offers good texture and solid structure but could use a bit more delineation of flavor and length. A bit chunkier and less sophisticated than the 2001, but with more sheer material. Finishes with big, chewy tannins that are a bit less sweet than those of the 2001.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrandPontet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GressierGrandPoujeaux.aspWS 87 (11/1998): Tasted from magnum. Dark ruby-garnet in color. Rich and slightly stinky, with earth, currant and tobacco aromas. Medium- to full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a pretty currant flavor. Slightly short on the finish.WA 86 (12/1995): This wine has always been an attractive, fragrant, classic Pauillac with scents of cedar, spice, and berry fruit. Although not the most concentrated wine from the appellation, it is a medium-bodied, elegant example of the vintage that requires drinking before the turn of the century . Tasted 2 times since bottling with consistent notes.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrandPuyDucasse.aspWS 87 (11/1998): Tasted from magnum. Dark ruby-garnet in color. Rich and slightly stinky, with earth, currant and tobacco aromas. Medium- to full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a pretty currant flavor. Slightly short on the finish.WA 86 (12/1995): This wine has always been an attractive, fragrant, classic Pauillac with scents of cedar, spice, and berry fruit. Although not the most concentrated wine from the appellation, it is a medium-bodied, elegant example of the vintage that requires drinking before the turn of the century . Tasted 2 times since bottling with consistent notes.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrandPuyDucasse.aspWA 93 (6/2000): One of the greatest Grand-Puy-Lacostes ever produced, the 1982 still possesses a youthful, dense opaque purple color with slight lightening at the edge. The nose remains somewhat monolithic, but an intense black currant/creme de cassis-scented bouquet is backed up by roasted earth, smoke, and mineral notes. Full-bodied, muscular, and powerful, this opulently-textured, moderately tannic, youthful, huge Grand-Puy-Lacoste will benefit from another 2-5 years of cellaring. However, the wine's sweetness and low acidity provide plenty of joy at present. It will age well for at least another 25 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrandPuyLacoste.aspMB ****: "Many notes, including cask samples at four trade tastings in 1984: richly coloured, fruity, spicy, lean- as usual- and classic. Summarising four more recent notes: still fairly deep, slow- also as usual- to shed its youthful sheen; rich, lovely fruit; touch of sweetness, medium-fujll body, flavoury, with crisp dry finish. Undervalued. **** 1992-2000+http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrandPuyLacoste.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGrolet.aspWA 96 (6/2000): An extraordinarily powerful, backward wine with unlimited up-side potential, the opaque plum/purple/black-colored 1982 Gruaud-Larose exhibits an explosive nose of new saddle leather, plums, prunes, black cherry jam, chocolate, steak tartare, and roasted espresso. Unbelievably powerful, thick, and intense, with full body, mouth-searing tannin levels, a grilled steak-like flavor, and a huge, intense finish, this is a monster, blockbuster 1982 that still needs 5-7 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030. It should prove to be one of the most profound Gruaud-Larose made in the twentieth century. In quality, it is a first-growth.IWC 94 (8/2002): Good deep red. Very complex, perfumed aromas of plum, leather, meat and minerals. Sweet, lush and young; really stuffed with fat, meaty fruit. Broad without being really thick, with impressive precision of fruit. The most complex of these three vintages of Gruaud-Larose. Finishes with big, ripe tannins and palate-staining sweet fruit. The young 2000 reminds me of this wine. (A second bottle of equal quality showed roasted currant, tobacco and leather on the nose; a broad, silky palate of compelling sweetness; and a sweetly fruity finish with big, firm tannins and excellent length.) Drink now through 2020. WS 94 (11/1998): One of the best wines ever made at this estate. Dense ruby color with a slight amber edge. Intense grape, berry and raspberry aromas. Full-bodied, with loads of velvety tannins and a long, ripe fruit and mineral aftertaste.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGruaudLarose.aspWA 90 (9/1997): This dark garnet-colored, unctuous, rather viscous, deep wine has reached full maturity. The 1983 Gruaud-Larose exhibits a provocative nose of roasted herbs, animal fat, jammy blackberries, licorice, and cedar. It is a big, fat, juicy, and succulent wine, with sweet tannin in the finish. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGruaudLarose.aspWA 94 (7/1997): There seems to be no doubt about the quality of the 1986 Gruaud-Larose, which in 20 years should rival the extraordinary 1990, 1982, 1961, 1949, and 1928 made at this vast estate. From the first time I tasted this wine in cask, I have thought it to be among the blockbusters of the vintage. It has a black/purple color, mammoth structure, a fabulous wealth of fruit, and a finish that seems to last several minutes. This is indeed first-growth quality, but then, when, in the last decade, has a Gruaud-Larose not matched the quality of the first-growths? Given the enormous structure, impressive concentration, and massive tannins, one must wonder when this wine will be ready to drink. That may preclude a number of consumers from actually deciding to buy it. For many readers, this is probably a wine to lay down for their children, rather than for them to realistically consider drinking in their own lifetimes. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGruaudLarose.aspWS 95 (3/2003): Absolutely wonderful aromas of flowers, currants and citrus. Full-bodied, yet very, very refined, with a center core of fruit that tastes like crushed raspberries and goes on and on. Greatest wine from this estate since 1945. Best after 2010. 18,750 cases made.WA 94 (4/2003): This saturated bluish-black/purple-colored wine seems at first closed and broodingly backward. In the mouth, it is dense, textured, full-bodied, pure, yet, at the same time, closed. This wine is large-sized, with high tannin but equally high extract and richness. The wine will require patience, and seems to me to be the best effort Gruaud Larose has put forth since their sumptuous 1990. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGruaudLarose.aspWS 92 (3/2004): This shows a rich and dense nose of blackberry, coffee and smoke. Full-bodied, with soft and round tannins and a long, smoky finish. Very fresh and velvety. GL is really doing excellent things these days, even in less-than-easy vintages. Best after 2008. 2,455 cases made.WA 90 (6/2004): Surprisingly accessible as well as supple, this 2001 St.-Julien reveals a deep plum/purple color along with a rich bouquet of smoke, roasted vegetables, black currants, plums, licorice, and Asian spices. Velvety-textured and medium-bodied, with loads of fruit, and a plump, expansive, plush texture, this is an atypically forward Gruaud Larose to drink now and over the next 12-14 years.IWC 89 (6/2004): Red-ruby. Exotic aromas of raspberry, leather and smoked meat. Juicy and tightly wound, with slightly roasted flavors of currant and leather. The leathery note continues on the aftertaste.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGruaudLarose.aspWS 91 (3/2008): Aromas of blackberry, meat and earth follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a rich finish. Decadent, balanced and very approachable already. I thought it would have been a little better than this. Best after 2014. IWC 90 (6/2008): Good red-ruby. Redcurrant, leather and game on the expressive if slightly rustic nose. Sweet and concentrated but a bit youthfully aggressive, and not showing the refinement or definition of the 2006. Strong nutty oak component. Finishes with substantial tannins that are a bit richer and more fully buffered by the wine's middle-palate material than those of the 2006. It will be interesting to compare these two vintages in ten years or so.WA 89 (4/2008): Tasted on three separate occasions, this cuvee exhibits a dark ruby color (with much less saturation than many wines of the vintage) as well as a distinctive, herbal, meaty, horsey nose, medium to full body, good depth, power, and richness, and soft tannins. The wine’s rustic aromas and earthy style are intriguing and provocative. While an excellent effort, the 2005 Gruaud Larose is not one of the stars of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChGruaudLarose.aspIWC 90 (6/1999): Deep ruby-red. Floral, spicy aromas of black cherry, licorice and shoe polish. Thick and dense, with lovely sweetness and inner-mouth flavor. Boasts more volume than either the '98 or '97. Finishes thoroughly ripe, with rich, well-integrated tannins. A very strong vintage for this wine._x000D__x000D_WS 90 (12/2007): Aromas of blackberries and cassis, with hints of toasted oak. Full-bodied, chewy and rich. A bit one-dimensional on the palate. Needs time._x000D_WA 89-91 (2/1998): While this may be the most impressive Haut-Batailley I have ever tasted, I am reluctant to go out on a liMB ***[*], the 1996 possesses intense fruit, medium to full body, ripe tannin, and a surprisingly long, layered finish. This appears to be a classic, and may merit an outstanding score. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHautBatailley.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHautBrisson.aspWS 95 (11/1991): A rather angular and fine wine; very classy, Ruby in the center, with a brick-red edge; perfumed black cherry aromas; full-bodied, with full tannins and a firm structure, yet plenty of cherry flavor.MB ***[*]: A curious wine. It often is: in 1954 I wrote "difficult to place, looks like a '47, lighter (on the palate) than it looks". Dry. "A trifle green." Its greenness had disappeared by the late 1950s: 'soft' noted, and, in the mid-1960s, nice flavour, balance, refreshing and 'good to drink'. Haut Brion, though customarily elegant, has a very distinctive taste, more earthy than its peers in the Medoc, with a touch of coffee, tobacco leaves on the nose. I thought it was at its best in the mid 1980s. Only one recent note: still very deep and fairly intense, relatively (compared , say, to Mouton) low-keyed nose, touch of honey; a wine of great power and length with an end taste of singed heather (and I should know. I was brought up in the Yorkshire moors!).WA 91 (12/1995): The 1949 Haut-Brion revealed some of the textbook cigar, ashtray, tobacco-scented notes, as well as scents of roasted herbs and ripe fruit. The color was a medium garnet with considerable rust at the edge. This medium-bodied, round, sweet, and soft wine is past its prime, although it remains exceptional. Drink it up.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspMB **** (10/2000): Several notes through the 1980s, and give in the last decade. A fully mature yet intense appearance; nose like cream cheese; smoky, very earthy, dry at a dinner at Christie's in 1997 to honour Jack (Sir John) Plumb. Most recently a very harmonious , earthy bottle.WA 90 (10/1988): 1964, while a mixed vintage for the wines of the Medoc as a result of many properties being caught by the heavy rains, was a very good year for the Graves chateaux. Haut-Brion's 1964 is fully mature as evidenced by the amber edge to its color, and has a splendidly rich, earthy, tobacco-and-mineral-scented bouquet. Ripe, deep, supple, voluptuous flavors are present on the palate. This full-bodied wine should be drunk up as it is living dangerously.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspMB **** (10/2000): Several notes through the 1980s, and give in the last decade. A fully mature yet intense appearance; nose like cream cheese; smoky, very earthy, dry at a dinner at Christie's in 1997 to honour Jack (Sir John) Plumb. Most recently a very harmonious , earthy bottle.WA 90 (10/1988): 1964, while a mixed vintage for the wines of the Medoc as a result of many properties being caught by the heavy rains, was a very good year for the Graves chateaux. Haut-Brion's 1964 is fully mature as evidenced by the amber edge to its color, and has a splendidly rich, earthy, tobacco-and-mineral-scented bouquet. Ripe, deep, supple, voluptuous flavors are present on the palate. This full-bodied wine should be drunk up as it is living dangerously.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 90 (1/1998): As this wine has developed, it has taken on a pronounced roasted, melted asphalt/tar-scented nose that in some ways is the essence of Graves, but it seems strikingly devoid of some of the other nuances so common in Haut-Brion. The wine is fully mature, with a deep garnet color, and a pronounced asphalt-scented nose. This impression is verified in the mouth, where the wine reveals a lot of smokiness, tar, and sweet black fruit flavors. This surprisingly evolved wine has been fully mature for a decade or more. I would not push my luck with this vintage of Haut-Brion, preferring to consume it over the next 5-6 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2003. Last tasted 10/97WS 90 (4/1997): At a lovely, mature level, yet still sweet and inviting, with a veil of chewy tannins around the pretty raspberry flavors and a touch of herb to enliven the finish.--Haut-Brion vertical.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspMB ***[*]: Not tasted in its youth, and not much liked in the autumn of 1992. When I first put my nose in it, it was rich but raw. Then subsequent notes to put it in perspective. First, at Edmund Penning-Rowsell's '10-year' first growth dinner in July 1995: fairly deep, still youthful; initially restrained but opened up. Lovely, spicy, gingery, well nigh perfect. And a high mark on the palate too, despite its initial austerity. Good earth flavour and balance. A lot to it. Later in the year, noted at a tasting of first growth '85s at Gidleigh Park in Devon. Certainly distinctive- Haut-Brion is different; on the palate a 'minerally' hot pebbles taste- swingeingly dry, with bitter tannin. 'Needs time.' Showing its class however at a rather dreary boardroom lunch I hosted in December 1998. At 15 years of age a more interesting note at the MW Haut-Brion tasting at which Jean Delmas informed us that 1985 was 'a drought year, one of the hottest of the century. Some fog in September that helped the ripening at Haut-Brion', which seems strange. But the wine was showing well, still with youthful good looks; sweet, delicious, very good length. Most recently, at Kaplan's evening of '85s, I noted a rather vegetal nose which opened up fragrantly; wonderful elegance and texture, 'tobacco taste and finish'. Lovely now but will continue. WA 94 (10/1997): This has always been one of the more seductive, savory, complex Haut-Brions of the eighties. My notes have always suggested that it is the quintessentially elegant, finesse-styled Haut-Brion. The color remains a deep ruby/purple with slight lightening at the edge. The knock-out nose of intense jammy black fruits, smoke, cedar, herbs, and new oak is followed by a generously concentrated, rich, gorgeously proportioned and layered Haut-Brion with no hard edges. Everything - alcohol, acidity, tannin - is beautifully integrated into the seamless personality of the 1985. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspMB **** (1/1999): A very good '81, but in its own very individualistic way. elegance and vinosity come to mind. More harmonious, less dramatic than La Mission across the road. By its tenth birthday richly coloured, maturing; high-toned fragrance; with '81 leanness but good structure. And of course, 'tobacco', earthy (I also wrote 'brick dust' which sounds awful but was somehow trying to get its character.) Then in 1997, conducting an auction talk, something of a speciality of mine, with Joan, Duchesse de Mouchy and Jean Delmas, in the main auction room at Christie's Park Avenue. We and the audience all had a glass of the '81 which though good, and in most appropriate company, was not the sort of wine I like to drink without food. Most recently, outshining some other top '81s, with excellent flavour, good length, tannin and tolerable acidity. WA 85 (1/1991): My early notes on this wine were inconsistent, but two tastings of the 1981 in the late eighties revealed a flattering, gentle, medium-bodied wine with a smoky, vanillin oakiness, round, ripe flavors, and a soft, luscious finish. It lacks some guts and richness by the standards of most Haut-Brion vintages since 1978, but, nevertheless, it is a charming, lighter-weight, forward wine that has reached its plateau of maturity. Anticipated maturity: Now-2000. WS 82 (10/1994): The smoke and menthol aromas are attractive, but the wine flattens out on the palate, with gripping tannins and cooked, vegetal flavors. The finish is short. It's distinctive, but beginning to stagger. Tasted several times, with consistent notes.--The Bordeaux 50.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 100 (2/1997): Haut-Brion has been the most consistent first-growth over the last decade, producing top-notch wines, even in such tough years as 1987, 1993, and 1994. The 1989 is one of a handful of truly profound wines from a vintage that tends to be overrated, save for the Pomerols, a few St.-Emilions, and some overachievers in the Medoc. However, 1989 was an extraordinary success for Jean Delmas, the administrator of Haut-Brion and La Mission-Haut-Brion. The prodigious 1989 Haut-Brion is one of the greatest first-growths I have ever tasted. It has always reminded me of what the 1959 must have tasted like in its youth, but it is even richer and more compelling aromatically. The wine exhibits an opaque ruby/purple color, as well as a sweet nose of jammy fruit, tobacco, spicy oak, minerals, and smoke. Fabulously concentrated, with huge levels of fruit, extract, and glycerin, this wine is nearly viscous because of its thickness and richness. Low acidity gives the wine even more appeal and adds to its precociousness. The wine has not budged in development since it was first bottled, although it has always provided thrilling drinking because of its voluptuous texture. It needs another 5-6 years of bottle age before it will begin to develop Haut-Brion's fabulous fragrance. Expect it to hit its plateau of maturity around 2003-2005 and drink well for 15-25 years.WS 100 (4/2010): What a gorgeous, seductive and beautiful wine, as always. I can't get over the perfumed aromas of subtle milk chocolate, cedar and sweet tobacco. Full-bodied, yet so refined and silky, lasting for minutes on the palate. Everything is in just the right proportion. This is a wine that will go on forever. I love it. One of my great loves in the wine world. '89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now. 12,000 cases made.MB ***[*]: A wonderful wine. Deep, rich and spicy, sweet, fleshy, well endowed (November 1990). The following spring, alongside La Mission, superb. Not tasted for another nine years, less deep of course, fairly well developed; a singed, toasted, ripe nose and flavour: 'roasted coffee beans'. A touch raw and earthy (in a blind tasting of '89s in 1998). At the '10 year' tasting: ruby colour; soft, fragrant, spicy; '89 sweetness and richness, elegant. A slightly tarry, dry finish. 'Richness' is the word, noted again (Tokyo 1999). Two notes in 2000, with almost identical descriptions: medium-deep, maturing, its colour soft and mellow; warm, rich, slightly earthy nose and taste. Bouquet opening up beautifully; soft mellow repeated, sweet, full, rich, lovely flavour but with teeth-gripping acidity. Most recently, a double-magnum: rich, fruity but with a slightly astringent finish already noted. Drink 2010-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 90 (12/1994): Forty percent of the 1992 harvest was eliminated from Haut-Brion's final blend. The result is a stylish yet authoritatively flavored wine that reminds me of a slightly down-sized version of the superb 1985. A beautiful deep ruby color is followed by a penetrating bouquet of black fruits, smoke, and minerals. Fine ripeness and outstanding richness allied to medium body, an elegant personality, and a supple, moderately tannic finish suggest this wine will be mature in 4-5 years and last for 15-20.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 92 (2/1997): One of the great wines of the vintage, Haut-Brion's 1993 possesses a dark garnet/plum/purple color, an expressive, fragrant, sweet, berry, blackcurrant, mineral, lead pencil, and earthy-scented nose, and medium to full-bodied, concentrated flavors that reveal none of this vintage's hardness or herbaceousness. This layered wine offers sweet tannin, good length, and outstanding purity. Its price is moderate when compared to more recent vintages of Haut-Brion. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring and consume it between 2001-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 93 (2/1997): One of my favorite and most educational visits in Bordeaux is the time I spend with Haut-Brion's highly respected administrator, Jean Delmas. Delmas is the thinking man's winemaker, with a level of experience and success that is unequaled in Bordeaux. On this visit, we discussed at length the strong tendency in Bordeaux to produce wines with higher and higher percentages of Merlot. As Jean Delmas says, (1), Merlot provides grapes that can be picked earlier, and tend to ripen with higher degrees of sugar, thus producing wines with higher alcohol. (2) Merlot has less acidity, which, combined with its tendency to produce high alcohol, results in a sweeter, supple, and initially more seductive wine. (3) Winemakers can extract more from Merlot than they can from Cabernet Sauvignon, thus they can vinify Merlot at higher temperatures, ultimately producing exotic, opulent wines that are thrilling to taste young. However, as Delmas pointed out, it is the Cabernet Sauvignon that provides the structure, backbone, and, to his palate, ultimately the greatest measure of complexity, character, and Bordeaux typicity. Jean Delmas enjoys a sumptuous Merlot-based wine as much as any Bordeaux wine lover I know, but he is concerned by the replacement of Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards with Merlot. In short, he worries that much of the intrinsic character of many Medoc and Graves chateaux could be muted or lost in a succession of exotic, flashy, glitzy wines that are garish Medoc imitations of Pomerols and St.-Emilions - something to think about. In contrast to the 1993's penetrating, upfront aromas, the 1994 is closed aromatically. With coaxing, some truffle-like, sweet, black fruit aromas, as well as those of mineral/stones come forward. This spicy, full-bodied, powerful wine is a more masculine, structured effort than the 1993, with a potentially more complex, richer character. It is superbly crafted, beautifully balanced, and as pure as a wine can be. The integration of new oak, acidity, and tannin is commendable. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 93 (2/1997): One of my favorite and most educational visits in Bordeaux is the time I spend with Haut-Brion's highly respected administrator, Jean Delmas. Delmas is the thinking man's winemaker, with a level of experience and success that is unequaled in Bordeaux. On this visit, we discussed at length the strong tendency in Bordeaux to produce wines with higher and higher percentages of Merlot. As Jean Delmas says, (1), Merlot provides grapes that can be picked earlier, and tend to ripen with higher degrees of sugar, thus producing wines with higher alcohol. (2) Merlot has less acidity, which, combined with its tendency to produce high alcohol, results in a sweeter, supple, and initially more seductive wine. (3) Winemakers can extract more from Merlot than they can from Cabernet Sauvignon, thus they can vinify Merlot at higher temperatures, ultimately producing exotic, opulent wines that are thrilling to taste young. However, as Delmas pointed out, it is the Cabernet Sauvignon that provides the structure, backbone, and, to his palate, ultimately the greatest measure of complexity, character, and Bordeaux typicity. Jean Delmas enjoys a sumptuous Merlot-based wine as much as any Bordeaux wine lover I know, but he is concerned by the replacement of Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards with Merlot. In short, he worries that much of the intrinsic character of many Medoc and Graves chateaux could be muted or lost in a succession of exotic, flashy, glitzy wines that are garish Medoc imitations of Pomerols and St.-Emilions - something to think about. In contrast to the 1993's penetrating, upfront aromas, the 1994 is closed aromatically. With coaxing, some truffle-like, sweet, black fruit aromas, as well as those of mineral/stones come forward. This spicy, full-bodied, powerful wine is a more masculine, structured effort than the 1993, with a potentially more complex, richer character. It is superbly crafted, beautifully balanced, and as pure as a wine can be. The integration of new oak, acidity, and tannin is commendable. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 93 (2/1997): One of my favorite and most educational visits in Bordeaux is the time I spend with Haut-Brion's highly respected administrator, Jean Delmas. Delmas is the thinking man's winemaker, with a level of experience and success that is unequaled in Bordeaux. On this visit, we discussed at length the strong tendency in Bordeaux to produce wines with higher and higher percentages of Merlot. As Jean Delmas says, (1), Merlot provides grapes that can be picked earlier, and tend to ripen with higher degrees of sugar, thus producing wines with higher alcohol. (2) Merlot has less acidity, which, combined with its tendency to produce high alcohol, results in a sweeter, supple, and initially more seductive wine. (3) Winemakers can extract more from Merlot than they can from Cabernet Sauvignon, thus they can vinify Merlot at higher temperatures, ultimately producing exotic, opulent wines that are thrilling to taste young. However, as Delmas pointed out, it is the Cabernet Sauvignon that provides the structure, backbone, and, to his palate, ultimately the greatest measure of complexity, character, and Bordeaux typicity. Jean Delmas enjoys a sumptuous Merlot-based wine as much as any Bordeaux wine lover I know, but he is concerned by the replacement of Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards with Merlot. In short, he worries that much of the intrinsic character of many Medoc and Graves chateaux could be muted or lost in a succession of exotic, flashy, glitzy wines that are garish Medoc imitations of Pomerols and St.-Emilions - something to think about. In contrast to the 1993's penetrating, upfront aromas, the 1994 is closed aromatically. With coaxing, some truffle-like, sweet, black fruit aromas, as well as those of mineral/stones come forward. This spicy, full-bodied, powerful wine is a more masculine, structured effort than the 1993, with a potentially more complex, richer character. It is superbly crafted, beautifully balanced, and as pure as a wine can be. The integration of new oak, acidity, and tannin is commendable. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 96 (12/1998): This wine has been brilliant on every occasion I have tasted it. More accessible and forward than the 1996, it possesses a saturated ruby/purple color, as well as a beautiful, knock-out set of aromatics, consisting of black fruits, vanillin, spice, and wood-fire smoke. Multidimensional and rich, with layers of ripe fruit, and beautifully integrated tannin and acidity, this medium to full-bodied wine is a graceful, seamless, exceptional Haut-Brion that should drink surprisingly well young. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2030.IWC 93 (6/1998): Very good deep red-ruby. Sweet, highly expressive aromas of redcurrant, hot stones, roasted plum, woodsmoke and tobacco. Fuller and more textured in the middle palate, with a chewy, tactile mouth feel that suggests strong extract and a wonderfully pliant texture. A firm mineral underpinning and sound acids frame the fruit. Expansive and seductively sweet in the mouth. Finishes very long and ripe, with thoroughly civilized tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspMB ***[*]: Just five notes starting in September 1998 at the chateau with Jean Delmas: medium deep; plummy coloured; softer and more harmonious on nose and palate than the '97 alongside. Nice texture, moderate length. Next at the MW Haut-Brion tasting in January 2000. Stlil with youthful good looks; very fragrant, earthy, mocha- Delmas said 'very characteristic Pessac, burnt jam and (can't read my writing!) wine with a high level of resideual sugar and high acidity'. Certainly a rich, chunky wine, with a tannic, iron finish and aftertaste. Ten months later, at the MW tasting of '96s, I wrote: 'totally different ball game'. High mark. Lovely richness and texture. Most recently, tasted blind against six other first growth '96s. Now medium-deep with rich 'legs'; nose packed with fruit, fragrant; sweet, fairly full body masking the tannin and acidity, complete, lovely flavour. My mark was higher than the average. I rated it on a par with Ch. Margaux. Drink 2008-2025.WS 93 (12/2007): Gorgeous aromas of crushed berries, cigar box, black licorice and tanned leather. Full-bodied, with fine silky tannins and a medium to long finish. Seems a little tight right now. But refined and pretty. Nice for the vintage.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2008.IWC 92 (6/1999): Full ruby-red. Initially mute nose opened slowly to reveal complex aromas of raspberry, plum, hot stones, tobacco, saddle leather and toffee. Really explodes on the palate; lush and minerally, with a compelling note of woodsmoke and firm acidity. Wonderful combination of sweetness and vibrancy. Finishes very long and subtle, with firm tannins.WA 92 (4/1999): The backward 1996 Haut-Brion was bottled in July, 1998. Even administrator Jean Delmas was surprised by how closed it was when I tasted it in January. Only 60% of the crop was utilized in the final blend, which was 50% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Cabernet Franc. Out of barrel, this wine exhibited far more forthcoming aromatics as well as a sweeter mid-palate than it revealed from bottle. I had expected it to be more forward, and thus slightly down-graded the wine, although I am thrilled to own it and follow what appears to be a slow evolution. It will be a potentially long-lived wine. The 1996 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, and a surprisingly tight bouquet. With aeration, notes of fresh tobacco, dried herbs, smoke, asphalt, and black fruits emerge ... but reluctantly. It is tannic and medium-bodied, with outstanding purity and a layered, multidimensional style. However, the finish contains abundant tannin, suggesting that this wine needs 5-8 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 98 (4/2003): It will always be tempting to compare the 2000 Haut-Brion with the perfect 2000 La Mission Haut-Brion. However, it is not as fat, unctuous, flamboyant, or voluminous as La Mission. Yet, like a great diplomat, it is a wine of intensity, authority, and measured restraint. A supremely elegant offering, its dense ruby/purple color, and burgeoning perfume of scorched earth, liquid minerals, plums, black currants, cherries, lead pencil, and subtle spicy oak are followed by a delicate yet powerfully flavorful, multi-layered, highly nuanced, and extraordinarily pure and seamless wine. There have been so many recent classics from Haut-Brion, it is premature to suggest the 2000 is better than the 1998, 1995, 1990, or 1989, but it is certainly a prodigious wine of dazzling persistence, length, and complexity. A blend of 51% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Cabernet Franc, it should prove to be uncommonly long-lived, even by the standards of Haut-Brion. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2040.IWC 96 (6/2003): Full red-ruby. Roasted plum, currant, tobacco and minerals on the nose. Compellingly dense and thick but almost miraculously lively and light on its feet. Has a texture like liquid velvet, coating the entire palate. Wonderfully unmanipulated wine, with perfectly integrated acids giving it superb subtle vinosity and thrust. Finishes with outstanding building persistence, with the substantial tannins perfectly supported by the wine's fat middle.WS 94 (3/2003): Beautiful tobacco, berry, cedar and plum aromas in this one. Full-bodied, yet very fine and reserved, with silky tannins and a medium finish. I still prefer the 1998, but this is very, very fine indeed. An Haut-Brion with lots of finesse. Best after 2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 89 (4/2005): Aromas of minerals, forest floor, fresh mushrooms, plums, and currants are present in the moderately fragrant bouquet. Angular, with hard tannin, medium body, and sweet plums as well as currants, this 2002 is harder and tougher-textured than from barrel. Like many 2002s, it is reserved and angular at present. It remains to be seen whether it will flesh out and reveal more charm and succulence. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWA 89 (4/2005): Aromas of minerals, forest floor, fresh mushrooms, plums, and currants are present in the moderately fragrant bouquet. Angular, with hard tannin, medium body, and sweet plums as well as currants, this 2002 is harder and tougher-textured than from barrel. Like many 2002s, it is reserved and angular at present. It remains to be seen whether it will flesh out and reveal more charm and succulence. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 95 (3/2007): Wonderful aromas of dried flowers, currant, berries and mineral. Full-bodied, yet reserved and refined. Lovely texture, with a pure silk feel. Seamless and beautiful. Great length. Even better than from barrel. Best after 2012. 12,500 cases made. WA 92 (6/2007): The dark plum/ruby-hued 2004 Haut-Brion exhibits a noble, discrete, smoky bouquet revealing notions of plum liqueur, black currants, sweet cherries, and subtle earth. In addition to its aromatic complexity, this medium-bodied effort reveals classic elegance and delicacy as well as sweet fruit in the mouth and a long finish. Give this streamlined, civilized wine 2-4 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 20-25 years. It is amazingly similar to Haut-Brion’s 1999. IWC 91+ (6/2007): Good deep ruby-red. Reticent nose showed some dark cherry with aeration. Densely packed but youthfully closed, even a bit austere today, offering hints of black raspberry and minerals. This is fairly tannic wine (the IPT is 72) but there's nothing hard about it. My sample gained in sweetness and texture with aeration, although its fruit character remained tightly wound. Give this time in a carafe if you plan to try it anytime soon. At this tasting, the '04 La Mission was showing much more personality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 95 (3/2007): Wonderful aromas of dried flowers, currant, berries and mineral. Full-bodied, yet reserved and refined. Lovely texture, with a pure silk feel. Seamless and beautiful. Great length. Even better than from barrel. Best after 2012. 12,500 cases made. WA 92 (6/2007): The dark plum/ruby-hued 2004 Haut-Brion exhibits a noble, discrete, smoky bouquet revealing notions of plum liqueur, black currants, sweet cherries, and subtle earth. In addition to its aromatic complexity, this medium-bodied effort reveals classic elegance and delicacy as well as sweet fruit in the mouth and a long finish. Give this streamlined, civilized wine 2-4 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 20-25 years. It is amazingly similar to Haut-Brion’s 1999. IWC 91+ (6/2007): Good deep ruby-red. Reticent nose showed some dark cherry with aeration. Densely packed but youthfully closed, even a bit austere today, offering hints of black raspberry and minerals. This is fairly tannic wine (the IPT is 72) but there's nothing hard about it. My sample gained in sweetness and texture with aeration, although its fruit character remained tightly wound. Give this time in a carafe if you plan to try it anytime soon. At this tasting, the '04 La Mission was showing much more personality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 95 (3/2007): Wonderful aromas of dried flowers, currant, berries and mineral. Full-bodied, yet reserved and refined. Lovely texture, with a pure silk feel. Seamless and beautiful. Great length. Even better than from barrel. Best after 2012. 12,500 cases made. WA 92 (6/2007): The dark plum/ruby-hued 2004 Haut-Brion exhibits a noble, discrete, smoky bouquet revealing notions of plum liqueur, black currants, sweet cherries, and subtle earth. In addition to its aromatic complexity, this medium-bodied effort reveals classic elegance and delicacy as well as sweet fruit in the mouth and a long finish. Give this streamlined, civilized wine 2-4 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 20-25 years. It is amazingly similar to Haut-Brion’s 1999. IWC 91+ (6/2007): Good deep ruby-red. Reticent nose showed some dark cherry with aeration. Densely packed but youthfully closed, even a bit austere today, offering hints of black raspberry and minerals. This is fairly tannic wine (the IPT is 72) but there's nothing hard about it. My sample gained in sweetness and texture with aeration, although its fruit character remained tightly wound. Give this time in a carafe if you plan to try it anytime soon. At this tasting, the '04 La Mission was showing much more personality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 95 (3/2007): Wonderful aromas of dried flowers, currant, berries and mineral. Full-bodied, yet reserved and refined. Lovely texture, with a pure silk feel. Seamless and beautiful. Great length. Even better than from barrel. Best after 2012. 12,500 cases made. WA 92 (6/2007): The dark plum/ruby-hued 2004 Haut-Brion exhibits a noble, discrete, smoky bouquet revealing notions of plum liqueur, black currants, sweet cherries, and subtle earth. In addition to its aromatic complexity, this medium-bodied effort reveals classic elegance and delicacy as well as sweet fruit in the mouth and a long finish. Give this streamlined, civilized wine 2-4 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 20-25 years. It is amazingly similar to Haut-Brion’s 1999. IWC 91+ (6/2007): Good deep ruby-red. Reticent nose showed some dark cherry with aeration. Densely packed but youthfully closed, even a bit austere today, offering hints of black raspberry and minerals. This is fairly tannic wine (the IPT is 72) but there's nothing hard about it. My sample gained in sweetness and texture with aeration, although its fruit character remained tightly wound. Give this time in a carafe if you plan to try it anytime soon. At this tasting, the '04 La Mission was showing much more personality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 100 (3/2008): This is incredible on the nose, showing coffee cake, blackberry, floral, coffee bean and vanilla bean, with Chinese spices. A very complex, full-bodied red, with seamless, hyperpolished tannins that caress every millimeter of the palate. Lasts for minutes. So beautifully balanced, I'm left speechless. Is it even better than the 1989? Best after 2017. 9,080 cases made.WA 98 (4/2008): Another profound effort from Haut-Brion, the 2005 (a 9,000-case blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc) has bulked up to the point that it is fair to compare it to the great successes of 1989, 1990, 1995, 1996, 1998, and 2000. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by a nuanced, noble bouquet of blue and red fruits interwoven with wet stones, unsmoked cigar tobacco, scorched earth, and spring flowers. The wine is full-bodied, pure, and complex as well as exceptionally elegant with laser-like precision. The tannins are still serious and substantial, and in that sense, this is a completely different style of Haut-Brion than the opulent, silky-textured 1989 and 1990. As I have written before, it comes across as an improved, more concentrated and structured version of the 1995 or 1998. Patience will be required for this stunner. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2040+IWC 97 (6/2008): Bright ruby-red. Wonderfully expressive nose combines black raspberry, mocha, hot stones, caramel and tobacco. Lush, fat and full but with terrific definition and suavity to its extravagantly dense black raspberry, stone and licorice flavors. As large-scaled as this is, it's not at all overly sweet. Expands impressively on the back half, finishing with substantial tannins that are thoroughly covered by fruit. A great vintage for Haut-Brion.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 100 (3/2008): This is incredible on the nose, showing coffee cake, blackberry, floral, coffee bean and vanilla bean, with Chinese spices. A very complex, full-bodied red, with seamless, hyperpolished tannins that caress every millimeter of the palate. Lasts for minutes. So beautifully balanced, I'm left speechless. Is it even better than the 1989? Best after 2017. 9,080 cases made.WA 98 (4/2008): Another profound effort from Haut-Brion, the 2005 (a 9,000-case blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc) has bulked up to the point that it is fair to compare it to the great successes of 1989, 1990, 1995, 1996, 1998, and 2000. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by a nuanced, noble bouquet of blue and red fruits interwoven with wet stones, unsmoked cigar tobacco, scorched earth, and spring flowers. The wine is full-bodied, pure, and complex as well as exceptionally elegant with laser-like precision. The tannins are still serious and substantial, and in that sense, this is a completely different style of Haut-Brion than the opulent, silky-textured 1989 and 1990. As I have written before, it comes across as an improved, more concentrated and structured version of the 1995 or 1998. Patience will be required for this stunner. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2040+IWC 97 (6/2008): Bright ruby-red. Wonderfully expressive nose combines black raspberry, mocha, hot stones, caramel and tobacco. Lush, fat and full but with terrific definition and suavity to its extravagantly dense black raspberry, stone and licorice flavors. As large-scaled as this is, it's not at all overly sweet. Expands impressively on the back half, finishing with substantial tannins that are thoroughly covered by fruit. A great vintage for Haut-Brion.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 100 (3/2008): This is incredible on the nose, showing coffee cake, blackberry, floral, coffee bean and vanilla bean, with Chinese spices. A very complex, full-bodied red, with seamless, hyperpolished tannins that caress every millimeter of the palate. Lasts for minutes. So beautifully balanced, I'm left speechless. Is it even better than the 1989? Best after 2017. 9,080 cases made.WA 98 (4/2008): Another profound effort from Haut-Brion, the 2005 (a 9,000-case blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc) has bulked up to the point that it is fair to compare it to the great successes of 1989, 1990, 1995, 1996, 1998, and 2000. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by a nuanced, noble bouquet of blue and red fruits interwoven with wet stones, unsmoked cigar tobacco, scorched earth, and spring flowers. The wine is full-bodied, pure, and complex as well as exceptionally elegant with laser-like precision. The tannins are still serious and substantial, and in that sense, this is a completely different style of Haut-Brion than the opulent, silky-textured 1989 and 1990. As I have written before, it comes across as an improved, more concentrated and structured version of the 1995 or 1998. Patience will be required for this stunner. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2040+IWC 97 (6/2008): Bright ruby-red. Wonderfully expressive nose combines black raspberry, mocha, hot stones, caramel and tobacco. Lush, fat and full but with terrific definition and suavity to its extravagantly dense black raspberry, stone and licorice flavors. As large-scaled as this is, it's not at all overly sweet. Expands impressively on the back half, finishing with substantial tannins that are thoroughly covered by fruit. A great vintage for Haut-Brion.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspMB ***[*]: Despite a 'cold', austere, nutty nose, not as dry as expected, nice weight, lovely flavour and great length. Drink now-2010. _x000D__x000D_WA 93 (1/1998): In a vintage that produced a lot of high acid, emaciated dry whites, Haut-Brion's 1996 is the wine of the vintage. It displays exceptional concentration, tangy acidity, and gorgeously layered flavors of buttery citrus-like fruit, olives, and smoke. This medium-bodied, concentrated wine is quite backward. It will need a considerable amount of bottle age to shed some of its structure. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025._x000D__x000D_IWC 92 (6/1999): Vibrant, floral aromas of lime, coconut and tropical fruits. Sweet but lively; very rich, with Chassagne-like flavors of quince jam, peach, flowers and herbs. Quite full, even velvety, in the mouth but racy and very long. A lovely showing. _x000D__x000D__x000D_http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspIWC 95 (6/2006): Brilliant yellow color. Musky aromas of ginger, roasted nuts and honey. Wonderfully large-scaled, round and ripe, conveying a powerful sense of solidity. Tactile, sweet and extremely complex, with honeyed soil tones currently dominating stone fruit and mineral flavors. Finishes dry and classic, with outstanding breadth. Today this seems fresher and fruitier than the 2004 Laville Haut-Brion. WA 94 (6/2007): (no note given)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChHaut-Brion.aspWS 89 (12/2009): Blackberry, cherry, currant and minerals on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a vanilla, berry aftertaste. Balanced and pretty for the vintage. Much better than I remember.—'88/'98 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2008). Drink now. 10,000 cases made.WA 87 (4/2001): Readers need to pay increasing attention to the efforts of the young Emmanuel Cruse, who has racheted up the level of d'Issan's quality.The dark ruby-colored, elegant, finesse-filled 1998 d'Issan reveals a floral, licorice, herb, and blackberry/currant-scented bouquet. Medium-bodied, with sweet tannin, a soft entry on the palate, fine concentration, a pure finish, and moderate tannin, it will be at its best between 2002-2014.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChDIssan.aspWA 87 (1/1998): This fully mature wine needs to be consumed over the near term. The color is a dark garnet with considerable amber and orange at the edge. The wine possesses an enticing, expressive, herb, jammy fruit, earth, and vanillin-scented nose. Some rustic tannin is noticeable on the palate, but this fleshy, soft, low acid wine is fully mature, so readers should capture its intensity of fruit before it begins to fade, revealing more tannin, acidity, and alcohol. Anticipated maturity: Now-2000.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaDominique.aspWS 91 (3/2003): Vivid aromas of blackberries and minerals, with a hint of flowers. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fine tannins and ripe fruit. Medium finish. This is the best La Louvière in years. Best after 2009. 11,665 cases made.WA 90 (4/2003): This opaque ruby/purple-colored 2000 exhibits plenty of earthy, black currant, vanilla, graphite, licorice, and smoky cherry aromas as well as flavors. Medium-bodied with sweet tannin, good acidity, and a long, concentrated finish, this is the finest La Louviere since the 1990. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaLouviere.aspWS 87 (4/1998): A Sauternes for early drinking from Lafaurie. Lovely aromas of coconut and honey with hints of dried apricot. Medium-bodied and sweet, with a lemon pie aftertaste. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafauriePeyraguey.aspMB *** (12/1989): Variable. Not Lafite at its best. Only one really admiring note, a bottle in 1988, attractive forthcoming bouquet, sweet, very appealing flavour, somewhat acidic. Last tasted, an opulent over-the-top jeroboam, in 1989.WA 59 (4/1991): In April 1991, I had the opportunity to taste (from a friend's cellar in Bordeaux) the 1929. The wine had been purchased in the thirties and kept in a cold Bordeaux cellar until this tasting. The wine was disappointing (faded and sickly).http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWS 92 (5/1997): Classic Lafite elegance; lean but vibrant, with cherry, herb and chocolate flavors layered with hints of earth and tobacco.WA nr (1998): The 1947 is disappointing.MB **** (9/1998): Combining richness and chaarm. Tasted on nearly 20 occasions, first in 1958. Then, and in 1959, I noted it as faultless: really lovely, full flavoured, perfectly balanced. Yet in the mid-1960s and some noted through the 1970s, I detected a 'prickly', slightly tart acid edge, though it was still delicious. And in the 1980s 'charm and power', a gloriously rich, fragrant, lovely wine. At the great Eigensatz first growth magnum tasting in 1993 I thought the Lafite was the most perfect of the 'flight'. More recently, very good flavour, but edgy acidity creeping in at the Sveass dinner (1996). The most recent, its appearance mellowing as was its bouquet. Still fairly sweet, soft, drinking well but acidity trying to catch up. Last noted at the Rodenstock wine weekend. Drink up.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 84 (2/1996): Except for the 1966 and 1870 vintages of Lafite-Rothschild, these wines were poured on virgin territory on my palate. Isn't it ironic that the most disappointing wine (forgetting the spoiled 1875 Lafite-Rothschild, which had frightful levels of volatile acidity) was the youngest wine, the 1966 Lafite. With a light to medium ruby/garnet color, this wine exhibited a classy, weedy, herbal, Cabernet-dominated nose, soft, washed-out flavors, and little body and length. It is also beginning to dry out. I suppose if one were to taste a 30-year old Cabernet from Monterey County, California, it might reveal similar characteristics. The 1966 Lafite-Rothschild has consistently been a major disappointment from what is an irregular, but very good vintage.WS 84 (11/1991): Mature, spicy bouquet isn't backed up by much flavor, but it's a light, elegant, ready-to-drink claret. Disappointing for the vintage.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.MB **** (4/1998): This is the sort of wine that, if not treated with care and concentration, might pass for- well, a decent drink but nothing special. There is simply no doubt in my mind that it needs plenty of air, plenty of time in decanter and glass. It is like an exceptionally shy person who has to be gently courted to bring out his or her true qualitites. I have well over two dozen well-spread notes. At its best it is the epitome of my 'lean, long-distance runn'. But not all notes have been brilliant. Just to deal with the more recent. In 12995 a fragrant obttle from the Nicolas cellar in Paris mischievously thrust, blind, by Rodenstock, into a 'flight' of pre-phylloxera chateaux. To be honest it was more than lean. It was a bit raw. The next year, in New York, a tasting of 1966 first growths to celebrat ethe 30th anniversary of Christie's wine department: the Lafite was elegant but again a bit 'edgy'. The following week, on the precise anniversary (11 October 1966), of my first sale, at a very grand dinner in the Great Room in King Street, London, no fewer than three imperiales, one magnificent, the others as I shall describe. The best had a good level and a deeply coloured, velvety-ended cork. Bouquet with the fragrance that only Lafite can exude. Lovely flavour, lean, good length. A jolly good drink. I don't know where the other 'imps'came from but one had a rough sort of cork and old weevil traces. Somewhat oxidised but seemed to gain its second breath. We drank it last. The third imperials was a disaster. Upon removing the capsule, the slightly depressed cork was seething with live weevils, yet afterremoving the crumbly cork, it was surprislyg, better than No. 2! Most recently, a classic jeroboam, harmonious, refreshing but with fading fruit, at a tasting I conducted for Vinum magazine in Zurich. It has passed the finishing posthttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 84 (2/1996): Except for the 1966 and 1870 vintages of Lafite-Rothschild, these wines were poured on virgin territory on my palate. Isn't it ironic that the most disappointing wine (forgetting the spoiled 1875 Lafite-Rothschild, which had frightful levels of volatile acidity) was the youngest wine, the 1966 Lafite. With a light to medium ruby/garnet color, this wine exhibited a classy, weedy, herbal, Cabernet-dominated nose, soft, washed-out flavors, and little body and length. It is also beginning to dry out. I suppose if one were to taste a 30-year old Cabernet from Monterey County, California, it might reveal similar characteristics. The 1966 Lafite-Rothschild has consistently been a major disappointment from what is an irregular, but very good vintage.WS 84 (11/1991): Mature, spicy bouquet isn't backed up by much flavor, but it's a light, elegant, ready-to-drink claret. Disappointing for the vintage.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.MB **** (4/1998): This is the sort of wine that, if not treated with care and concentration, might pass for- well, a decent drink but nothing special. There is simply no doubt in my mind that it needs plenty of air, plenty of time in decanter and glass. It is like an exceptionally shy person who has to be gently courted to bring out his or her true qualitites. I have well over two dozen well-spread notes. At its best it is the epitome of my 'lean, long-distance runn'. But not all notes have been brilliant. Just to deal with the more recent. In 12995 a fragrant obttle from the Nicolas cellar in Paris mischievously thrust, blind, by Rodenstock, into a 'flight' of pre-phylloxera chateaux. To be honest it was more than lean. It was a bit raw. The next year, in New York, a tasting of 1966 first growths to celebrat ethe 30th anniversary of Christie's wine department: the Lafite was elegant but again a bit 'edgy'. The following week, on the precise anniversary (11 October 1966), of my first sale, at a very grand dinner in the Great Room in King Street, London, no fewer than three imperiales, one magnificent, the others as I shall describe. The best had a good level and a deeply coloured, velvety-ended cork. Bouquet with the fragrance that only Lafite can exude. Lovely flavour, lean, good length. A jolly good drink. I don't know where the other 'imps'came from but one had a rough sort of cork and old weevil traces. Somewhat oxidised but seemed to gain its second breath. We drank it last. The third imperials was a disaster. Upon removing the capsule, the slightly depressed cork was seething with live weevils, yet afterremoving the crumbly cork, it was surprislyg, better than No. 2! Most recently, a classic jeroboam, harmonious, refreshing but with fading fruit, at a tasting I conducted for Vinum magazine in Zurich. It has passed the finishing posthttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 84 (2/1996): Except for the 1966 and 1870 vintages of Lafite-Rothschild, these wines were poured on virgin territory on my palate. Isn't it ironic that the most disappointing wine (forgetting the spoiled 1875 Lafite-Rothschild, which had frightful levels of volatile acidity) was the youngest wine, the 1966 Lafite. With a light to medium ruby/garnet color, this wine exhibited a classy, weedy, herbal, Cabernet-dominated nose, soft, washed-out flavors, and little body and length. It is also beginning to dry out. I suppose if one were to taste a 30-year old Cabernet from Monterey County, California, it might reveal similar characteristics. The 1966 Lafite-Rothschild has consistently been a major disappointment from what is an irregular, but very good vintage.WS 84 (11/1991): Mature, spicy bouquet isn't backed up by much flavor, but it's a light, elegant, ready-to-drink claret. Disappointing for the vintage.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.MB **** (4/1998): This is the sort of wine that, if not treated with care and concentration, might pass for- well, a decent drink but nothing special. There is simply no doubt in my mind that it needs plenty of air, plenty of time in decanter and glass. It is like an exceptionally shy person who has to be gently courted to bring out his or her true qualitites. I have well over two dozen well-spread notes. At its best it is the epitome of my 'lean, long-distance runn'. But not all notes have been brilliant. Just to deal with the more recent. In 12995 a fragrant obttle from the Nicolas cellar in Paris mischievously thrust, blind, by Rodenstock, into a 'flight' of pre-phylloxera chateaux. To be honest it was more than lean. It was a bit raw. The next year, in New York, a tasting of 1966 first growths to celebrat ethe 30th anniversary of Christie's wine department: the Lafite was elegant but again a bit 'edgy'. The following week, on the precise anniversary (11 October 1966), of my first sale, at a very grand dinner in the Great Room in King Street, London, no fewer than three imperiales, one magnificent, the others as I shall describe. The best had a good level and a deeply coloured, velvety-ended cork. Bouquet with the fragrance that only Lafite can exude. Lovely flavour, lean, good length. A jolly good drink. I don't know where the other 'imps'came from but one had a rough sort of cork and old weevil traces. Somewhat oxidised but seemed to gain its second breath. We drank it last. The third imperials was a disaster. Upon removing the capsule, the slightly depressed cork was seething with live weevils, yet afterremoving the crumbly cork, it was surprislyg, better than No. 2! Most recently, a classic jeroboam, harmonious, refreshing but with fading fruit, at a tasting I conducted for Vinum magazine in Zurich. It has passed the finishing posthttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWS 80 (11/1991): Firm and moderately flavorful, with crisp cherry and plum notes accented by cola and leather. Nicely mature; drink now.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.WA 72 (1/1998): This is a vintage in which Lafite could certainly have done better. Light ruby with browning very much in evidence, this wine in the mid-1970s had a fragrant, spicy, charming bouquet, easygoing, simple fruity flavors, and light tannins. Now it is quite tired with old, faded, fruit flavors. Drink up! Anticipated maturity: Now-probably in serious decline.MB ***[*]: Several notes. Surprisingly deep but raw in cask, March 1969; an effort at fragrance and charm in the early 1970's but lacking middle. Most recently, colour lost; thin and tinny.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspMB **** (12/2000): The 1970 Lafite was anything but a slow developer, its nose and taste opening up through the 1970s. By 1979 it was showing its paces at Dr. Marvin Overton's grand Lafite tasting. My notes were as follows: (appearance) medium deep, rich, attractive, still undeveloped; (nose) intense, veery fruity, exhibiting more of a Cabernet Sauvignon aroma (than its flanking vintages), evolving richly, biscuity; medium dry, fairly full-bodied, with 'ripeness and roundness'. Wonderful development through the 1980s. In 1981 'really with the richness of a '34 or a '20'. Opulent bouquet. A soft velvety texture. 'Absolutely delicious', 'perfect now'. And so it went on. Not a blockbuster, but flavoury, savoury, cedary. All 5-start. By the mid-1980s, surprising drinkable, its great length, what the French call persistence, so admirable, also its aftertaste. I think that it was at its best around that time.Half a dozen notes during the last decade. In 1996, a tasting event, fabulous even by Rodenstock's own standards, we tasted - blind- a whole 'flight' of great wines in magnums. It might seem a bit over the top but I preferred the 1970 from Glamis Castle to the 1970. The latter had a touch of sourness on the palate. Still tannic. Very distinctive. Later that autumn a very good bottle at the annual Wine Committee dinner at the Athenaeum (club not hotel) From a low-keyed start its bouquet opened up beuatifully, as only Lafite can. Rich, but quite a bit of acidity. The following year, a most disappointing dried out jeroboam at a Bacchus Society Installation Dinner in Coral Gables; but this must have been bad cellaring, sometime in the past. Most recently, medium pale, fully mature, slightly orange-tinged; very mature, cheesy, with a medicinal Pauillac bouquet; surprisingly sweet, attractive, with very noticeable tannin and acidity. It needed food. It is very much in decline.WS 89 (5/1993): Pale garnet; cedary nose, with vanilla nuances; very concentrated; shows elegant, stylish cassis and tea flavors, but lacks the density and vigor of Mouton and Latour; also not up to the Imperial bottle tasted earlier.WA 85 (6/1996): A moderately good showing for this wine, Lafite's 1970 has consistently left me disappointed. The wine is beginning to reveal some of the classic Lafite nose of cedar, lead pencil, dried red and black fruits, and spice. The wine's bouquet would merit an outstanding rating if it were slightly more intense. On the palate, the annoyingly high acidity continues to be problematic, largely because the wine does not possess the flesh, fat, and extract to cover its angular structure. I have had some sour, acidic bottles of the 1970 Lafite, but this offering had better balance than previous examples. This is a wine that has far greater value on the auction block than on the dinner table.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWS 87 (11/1991): Full of lively cranberry, raspberry and herb flavors, with smoky accents and very firm acidity. Very good wine from an unheralded vintage. Drink now through 2000.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.MB * (9/1989): Could be a dashed sight worse. An effort at fragrance and flavour but dry, lean and tart. Not worth pursuing even out of curiosity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspMB ** (5/1996): The epitome of a light luncheon wine, indeed fulfilling precisely that purpose on the last six occasions in the mid-1990s, all from a case of magnums in my own cellar and consumed pleasantly at three successive boardroom luncheons (Christie's never thanked me) and three at home. Identical notes too: medium, touch of mahogany, mature; modestly fragrant bouquet opened up quite nicely, touch of iodine, light style, flavoury, refreshing. Hardly a '59 or '61, but a pleasant enough drink. (And one's guests are always impressed by the label!). WS 86 (11/1991): A pleasant surprise. Caramel and butter aromas complement tart raspberry and cherry flavors of modest intensity. Fairly light, starting to mature. Drink now through 1995.--Lafite Rothschild vertical. WA 83 (6/1987): A lightweight, agreeable wine from Lafite, the 1980 has a moderately intense aroma of cassis and fresh tobacco, and soft, charming flavors. A success for the vintage. Anticipated maturity: Now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 100 (6/2000): The 1982 Lafite possesses a dark, dense ruby/purple color with only a subtle lightening at the rim. Spectacular aromatics offer jammy cherry and black fruits intertwined with lead pencil, mineral, and smoky wood scents. Powerful for a Lafite, this wine unfolds to reveal extraordinary richness, purity, and overall symmetry in addition to stunning flavor depth and persistence. The finish lasts for nearly a minute. Plenty of tannin remains, and the wine displays a vibrancy and youthfulness that belie its 18 years of age. The modern day equivalent of Lafite-Rothschild's immortal 1959, the 1982 will enjoy another 30-70 years of life! An amazing achievement! Anticipated maturity: 2007-2070.IWC 95+ (8/2002): Good full, deep red. Slightly high-toned, highly nuanced nose of currant, roasted meat, cedar, marzipan, smoke and tobacco. Supple on entry, then firmed by sound acids. Still quite unevolved but seems distinctly less deep than the bottle of '59 I tasted alongside it. A rather muscular style of Lafite, finishing with big, tongue-dusting tannins. Drink 2005 through 2030. 93[+?]. My second bottle showed a darker red-ruby color; higher-pitched aromas of redcurrant, cedar, orange peel and coconut; a bright, very tight palate impression, with strong acidity contributing to the impression of steely spine; and a very subtle and very long, firmly tannic finish. This bottle seemed even less evolved than the first sample.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 93 (3/1997): Finally, the 1983 Lafite is beginning to shed its tannin. The wine exhibits a deep ruby/garnet color with only a slight lightening at the edge. The intoxicatingly perfumed nose of lead pencil, pain grille, red and black fruits, minerals, and roasted herbs is provocative. In the mouth, this wine displays considerable body for a Lafite, plenty of power, and a fleshy, rich, sweet mid-palate. Long, elegant, plump, and surprisingly fleshy, this outstanding example of Lafite seems largely forgotten given the number of high quality vintages during the golden decade of the eighties. Anticipated maturity: Now-2030.WS 91 (10/1994): Another excellent vintage for Lafite. Extremely fresh, with lovely blackberry and cassis character, a medium body and full tannins. Needs time. Try after 1996.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 94 (10/1994): Broodingly backward and in need of considerable bottle age, the 1988 is a classic expression of Lafite. This deeply-colored wine exhibits the tell-tale Lafite bouquet of cedar, subtle herbs, dried pit fruits, minerals, and cassis. Extremely concentrated, with brilliantly focused flavors and huge tannins, this backward, yet impressively endowed Lafite-Rothschild may well turn out to be the wine of the vintage! Anticipated maturity: 2000-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 94 (10/1994): Broodingly backward and in need of considerable bottle age, the 1988 is a classic expression of Lafite. This deeply-colored wine exhibits the tell-tale Lafite bouquet of cedar, subtle herbs, dried pit fruits, minerals, and cassis. Extremely concentrated, with brilliantly focused flavors and huge tannins, this backward, yet impressively endowed Lafite-Rothschild may well turn out to be the wine of the vintage! Anticipated maturity: 2000-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 94 (10/1994): Broodingly backward and in need of considerable bottle age, the 1988 is a classic expression of Lafite. This deeply-colored wine exhibits the tell-tale Lafite bouquet of cedar, subtle herbs, dried pit fruits, minerals, and cassis. Extremely concentrated, with brilliantly focused flavors and huge tannins, this backward, yet impressively endowed Lafite-Rothschild may well turn out to be the wine of the vintage! Anticipated maturity: 2000-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWS 93 (12/2009): Subtle, yet rich and decadent, offering meat, sweet berry and fresh leather on the nose. Full and very soft, with velvety tannins and a long, fruity finish. This has so much ripe fruit. Reserved and firm, this is turning to a very fine and shy Lafite. This is fresh and structured, but still holding back. I wouldn't wait, though.—'89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now.WA 90 (2/1997): As I suspected, the 1989 and 1990 vintages of Lafite-Rothschild have gone dormant. Both wines were among the more closed, backward examples in my blind tasting. The 1989 Lafite is also outstanding, but closed, with the tannin more elevated, and the wine so stubbornly reticent as to make evaluation almost impossible. Lafite's 1989 was far more easy to taste and understand several years ago. It appears to have gone completely to sleep. This medium ruby-colored, medium-bodied wine reveals new oak in the nose, and a spicy finish. It is a quintessentially elegant, restrained, understated style of Lafite. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWS 93 (12/2009): Subtle, yet rich and decadent, offering meat, sweet berry and fresh leather on the nose. Full and very soft, with velvety tannins and a long, fruity finish. This has so much ripe fruit. Reserved and firm, this is turning to a very fine and shy Lafite. This is fresh and structured, but still holding back. I wouldn't wait, though.—'89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now.WA 90 (2/1997): As I suspected, the 1989 and 1990 vintages of Lafite-Rothschild have gone dormant. Both wines were among the more closed, backward examples in my blind tasting. The 1989 Lafite is also outstanding, but closed, with the tannin more elevated, and the wine so stubbornly reticent as to make evaluation almost impossible. Lafite's 1989 was far more easy to taste and understand several years ago. It appears to have gone completely to sleep. This medium ruby-colored, medium-bodied wine reveals new oak in the nose, and a spicy finish. It is a quintessentially elegant, restrained, understated style of Lafite. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 89 (12/1994): In 1992 only 36% of the harvest was utilized, resulting in a deeply-colored wine with a nearly exceptional cedary, chocolatey, cassis-character, medium body, surprisingly concentrated flavors, as well as the classic Lafite aromatic profile. If discounted, readers should take the opportunity to experience Lafite's finesse in a softer, more precocious vintage. The 1992 Lafite should drink well in 2-3 years and last for 12-20.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 88 (2/1997): Because Lafite-Rothschild (1) tends to lack the weight of many wines of the northern Medoc, and (2) is never a flashy, ostentatious style of wine, it is often more difficult to evaluate when young than some of its neighbors. A successful wine for Lafite, this dark ruby/purple-colored 1993 is tightly-wound, medium-bodied, with a closed set of aromatics that reluctantly reveal hints of sweet blackcurrant fruit, weedy tobacco, and lead pencil scents. Polished and elegant, with Lafite's noble restraint, this is an excellent, classy, slightly austere wine. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 88 (2/1997): Because Lafite-Rothschild (1) tends to lack the weight of many wines of the northern Medoc, and (2) is never a flashy, ostentatious style of wine, it is often more difficult to evaluate when young than some of its neighbors. A successful wine for Lafite, this dark ruby/purple-colored 1993 is tightly-wound, medium-bodied, with a closed set of aromatics that reluctantly reveal hints of sweet blackcurrant fruit, weedy tobacco, and lead pencil scents. Polished and elegant, with Lafite's noble restraint, this is an excellent, classy, slightly austere wine. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 90 (2/1997): Because Lafite-Rothschild (1) tends to lack the weight of many wines of the northern Medoc, and (2) is never a flashy, ostentatious style of wine, it is often more difficult to evaluate when young than some of its neighbors. Made from nearhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 90 (2/1997): Because Lafite-Rothschild (1) tends to lack the weight of many wines of the northern Medoc, and (2) is never a flashy, ostentatious style of wine, it is often more difficult to evaluate when young than some of its neighbors. Made from nearhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 90 (2/1997): Because Lafite-Rothschild (1) tends to lack the weight of many wines of the northern Medoc, and (2) is never a flashy, ostentatious style of wine, it is often more difficult to evaluate when young than some of its neighbors. Made from nearhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 95 (2/1998): The 1995 Lafite-Rothschild (only one-third of the harvest made it into the final blend) is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, and 8% Cabernet Franc. The wine was showing spectacularly well when I tasted it in November, 1997. Ithttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 95 (2/1998): The 1995 Lafite-Rothschild (only one-third of the harvest made it into the final blend) is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, and 8% Cabernet Franc. The wine was showing spectacularly well when I tasted it in November, 1997. Ithttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 100 (4/1999): Tasted three times since bottling, the 1996 Lafite-Rothschild is unquestionably this renowned estate's greatest wine. As I indicated last year, only 38% of the crop was deemed grand enough to be put into the final blend, which is atypically high in Cabernet Sauvignon (83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot). This massive wine may be the biggest, largest-scaled Lafite I have ever tasted. It will require many years to come around, so I suspect all of us past the age of fifty might want to give serious consideration as to whether we should be laying away multiple cases of this wine. It is also the first Lafite-Rothschild to be put into a new engraved bottle (designed to prevent fraudulent imitations). The wine exhibits a thick-looking, ruby/purple color, and a knock-out nose of lead pencil, minerals, flowers, and black currant scents. Extremely powerful and full-bodied, with remarkable complexity for such a young wine, this huge Lafite is oozing with extract and richness, yet has managed to preserve its quintessentially elegant personality. This wine is even richer than it was prior to bottling. It should unquestionably last for 40-50 years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050. The wine of the vintage?IWC 96+ (8/2002): Full, deep ruby, by far the darkest of these vintages. Knockout nose of great precision: cassis, black cherry, lead pencil, licorice, dried herbs and mint. Densely packed and extremely unevolved; a powerfully structured wine with uncanny precision and penetration. Finishes with powerful, firm tannins and exceptional mounting persistence. An infant, but a great Northern Medoc '96 in the making. Drink 2015 to 2040. WS 96 (1/1999): Impressively dark in color, with mineral, mint and black currant aromas that hint also of spices and cedar. Full-bodied, with very firm tannins and a silky texture, this top Bordeaux goes on and on on the palate. One of the most solid Lafites in recent history. Best after 2002.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 100 (4/1999): Tasted three times since bottling, the 1996 Lafite-Rothschild is unquestionably this renowned estate's greatest wine. As I indicated last year, only 38% of the crop was deemed grand enough to be put into the final blend, which is atypically high in Cabernet Sauvignon (83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot). This massive wine may be the biggest, largest-scaled Lafite I have ever tasted. It will require many years to come around, so I suspect all of us past the age of fifty might want to give serious consideration as to whether we should be laying away multiple cases of this wine. It is also the first Lafite-Rothschild to be put into a new engraved bottle (designed to prevent fraudulent imitations). The wine exhibits a thick-looking, ruby/purple color, and a knock-out nose of lead pencil, minerals, flowers, and black currant scents. Extremely powerful and full-bodied, with remarkable complexity for such a young wine, this huge Lafite is oozing with extract and richness, yet has managed to preserve its quintessentially elegant personality. This wine is even richer than it was prior to bottling. It should unquestionably last for 40-50 years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050. The wine of the vintage?IWC 96+ (8/2002): Full, deep ruby, by far the darkest of these vintages. Knockout nose of great precision: cassis, black cherry, lead pencil, licorice, dried herbs and mint. Densely packed and extremely unevolved; a powerfully structured wine with uncanny precision and penetration. Finishes with powerful, firm tannins and exceptional mounting persistence. An infant, but a great Northern Medoc '96 in the making. Drink 2015 to 2040. WS 96 (1/1999): Impressively dark in color, with mineral, mint and black currant aromas that hint also of spices and cedar. Full-bodied, with very firm tannins and a silky texture, this top Bordeaux goes on and on on the palate. One of the most solid Lafites in recent history. Best after 2002.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 92 (4/2000): Only 26% of the crop made it into the final blend, resulting in only 15,000 cases of the 1997 Lafite-Rothschild. Readers should not ignore this wine because of the negative press surrounding the 1997 vintage. It boasts an opaque dense purple color in addition to a gorgeously sweet, expansive perfume of cedar wood, black currants, lead pencil, and minerals. What follows is a fat mid-palate, medium body, explosive fruit and richness, soft tannin, and a velvety texture. It is a beautiful, compelling Lafite-Rothschild that can be drunk young, yet promises to evolve for 15+ years. Although one of the most forward Lafites ever tasted, it is all the more captivating because of this characteristic. Don't miss it!WS 90 (1/2000): Wonderfully complex on the nose, with licorice, spice, berry and tobacco character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a delicious finish. Drink now through 2005.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 98 (4/2001): A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot, this wine represents only 34% of Lafite's total harvest. In a less than perfect Medoc vintage, it has been spectacular since birth, putting on more weight and flesh over the last year. This opaque purple-colored 1998 is close to perfection. The spectacular nose of lead pencil, smoky, mineral, and black currant fruit soars majestically from the glass. The wine is elegant yet profoundly rich, revealing the essence of Lafite's character. The tannin is sweet, and the wine is spectacularly layered yet never heavy. The finish is sweet, super-rich, yet impeccably balanced and long (50+ seconds). Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035.IWC 94+ (6/2001): Saturated bright ruby. Noble aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, lead pencil, licorice and nutty oak. Very intensely flavored and penetrating, with great class and grip. Impressively concentrated and juicy, but still rather imploded in the middle palate. This showed terrific subtle sweetness as it opened in the glass. Offers quintessential Lafite elegance as well as the strong backbone to support long aging. The finish features firm but ripe tannins and uncanny persistence of flavor. A candidate for the Medoc wine of the vintage.WS 93 (1/2001): Beautifully proportioned. Aromas of blackberry and spice, with a hint of toasted oak. Full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Very well done. Best of the Médoc first-growths. Best after 2008. 21,665 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 98 (4/2001): A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot, this wine represents only 34% of Lafite's total harvest. In a less than perfect Medoc vintage, it has been spectacular since birth, putting on more weight and flesh over the last year. This opaque purple-colored 1998 is close to perfection. The spectacular nose of lead pencil, smoky, mineral, and black currant fruit soars majestically from the glass. The wine is elegant yet profoundly rich, revealing the essence of Lafite's character. The tannin is sweet, and the wine is spectacularly layered yet never heavy. The finish is sweet, super-rich, yet impeccably balanced and long (50+ seconds). Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035.IWC 94+ (6/2001): Saturated bright ruby. Noble aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, lead pencil, licorice and nutty oak. Very intensely flavored and penetrating, with great class and grip. Impressively concentrated and juicy, but still rather imploded in the middle palate. This showed terrific subtle sweetness as it opened in the glass. Offers quintessential Lafite elegance as well as the strong backbone to support long aging. The finish features firm but ripe tannins and uncanny persistence of flavor. A candidate for the Medoc wine of the vintage.WS 93 (1/2001): Beautifully proportioned. Aromas of blackberry and spice, with a hint of toasted oak. Full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Very well done. Best of the Médoc first-growths. Best after 2008. 21,665 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 98 (4/2001): A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot, this wine represents only 34% of Lafite's total harvest. In a less than perfect Medoc vintage, it has been spectacular since birth, putting on more weight and flesh over the last year. This opaque purple-colored 1998 is close to perfection. The spectacular nose of lead pencil, smoky, mineral, and black currant fruit soars majestically from the glass. The wine is elegant yet profoundly rich, revealing the essence of Lafite's character. The tannin is sweet, and the wine is spectacularly layered yet never heavy. The finish is sweet, super-rich, yet impeccably balanced and long (50+ seconds). Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035.IWC 94+ (6/2001): Saturated bright ruby. Noble aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, lead pencil, licorice and nutty oak. Very intensely flavored and penetrating, with great class and grip. Impressively concentrated and juicy, but still rather imploded in the middle palate. This showed terrific subtle sweetness as it opened in the glass. Offers quintessential Lafite elegance as well as the strong backbone to support long aging. The finish features firm but ripe tannins and uncanny persistence of flavor. A candidate for the Medoc wine of the vintage.WS 93 (1/2001): Beautifully proportioned. Aromas of blackberry and spice, with a hint of toasted oak. Full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Very well done. Best of the Médoc first-growths. Best after 2008. 21,665 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 95 (4/2002): The 1999 Lafite Rothschild sports an engraved "1999" on the bottle along with an eclipse to mark that significant historical event of August, 1999. It is a quintessential offering from Lafite Rothschild. This prodigious wine is both elegant and intensely flavored, and almost diaphanous in its layers that unfold with no heaviness. An opaque ruby/purple color is accompanied by a complex bouquet of lead pencil, graphite, cedar, creme de cassis, toast, and vanilla. It is medium-bodied, with extravagant layers of richness yet little weight, and a finish that is all sweetness, ripeness, and harmony. This extraordinary Lafite increasingly appears to be a modern day clone of the majestic 1953. A mere one-third of the crop made it into the grand vin! Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.WS 94 (12/2009): Delivers wonderful dark chocolate, with raspberry and currant undertones. Full-bodied, featuring soft, silky tannins and a long finish. Very tight still. Needs time. Very layered and holding back. --'89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Best after 2012. 22,500 cases made.IWC 92 (6/2002): Bright, deep ruby-red. Ripe, deep aromas of currant, flowers, coconut and mint. Firm and tight, with excellent cut and precision; brisk flavors of bitter cherry, berry skin and minerals. A slightly dry-edged midweight that's best today on the long, slow-building finish. Shows an intriguing late note of faded rose.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 95 (4/2002): The 1999 Lafite Rothschild sports an engraved "1999" on the bottle along with an eclipse to mark that significant historical event of August, 1999. It is a quintessential offering from Lafite Rothschild. This prodigious wine is both elegant and intensely flavored, and almost diaphanous in its layers that unfold with no heaviness. An opaque ruby/purple color is accompanied by a complex bouquet of lead pencil, graphite, cedar, creme de cassis, toast, and vanilla. It is medium-bodied, with extravagant layers of richness yet little weight, and a finish that is all sweetness, ripeness, and harmony. This extraordinary Lafite increasingly appears to be a modern day clone of the majestic 1953. A mere one-third of the crop made it into the grand vin! Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.WS 94 (12/2009): Delivers wonderful dark chocolate, with raspberry and currant undertones. Full-bodied, featuring soft, silky tannins and a long finish. Very tight still. Needs time. Very layered and holding back. --'89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Best after 2012. 22,500 cases made.IWC 92 (6/2002): Bright, deep ruby-red. Ripe, deep aromas of currant, flowers, coconut and mint. Firm and tight, with excellent cut and precision; brisk flavors of bitter cherry, berry skin and minerals. A slightly dry-edged midweight that's best today on the long, slow-building finish. Shows an intriguing late note of faded rose.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 95 (4/2002): The 1999 Lafite Rothschild sports an engraved "1999" on the bottle along with an eclipse to mark that significant historical event of August, 1999. It is a quintessential offering from Lafite Rothschild. This prodigious wine is both elegant and intensely flavored, and almost diaphanous in its layers that unfold with no heaviness. An opaque ruby/purple color is accompanied by a complex bouquet of lead pencil, graphite, cedar, creme de cassis, toast, and vanilla. It is medium-bodied, with extravagant layers of richness yet little weight, and a finish that is all sweetness, ripeness, and harmony. This extraordinary Lafite increasingly appears to be a modern day clone of the majestic 1953. A mere one-third of the crop made it into the grand vin! Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.WS 94 (12/2009): Delivers wonderful dark chocolate, with raspberry and currant undertones. Full-bodied, featuring soft, silky tannins and a long finish. Very tight still. Needs time. Very layered and holding back. --'89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Best after 2012. 22,500 cases made.IWC 92 (6/2002): Bright, deep ruby-red. Ripe, deep aromas of currant, flowers, coconut and mint. Firm and tight, with excellent cut and precision; brisk flavors of bitter cherry, berry skin and minerals. A slightly dry-edged midweight that's best today on the long, slow-building finish. Shows an intriguing late note of faded rose.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 98+ (6/2010): Since I gave this wine a perfect score, I suppose some could see this as a downgrade. I found everything still there for a perfect rating, but I was just struck by how tight and backward the wine was. A blend of 93.3% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, the wine still has a dark ruby/purple color and an extraordinarily youthful nose of graphite, black currants, sweet, unsmoked cigar tobacco, and flowers. The wine is rich, medium to full-bodied, but has that ethereal elegance and purity that is always Lafite. I originally predicted that it would first reach maturity in 2011, but I would push that back by 5-7 years now, although it has 50-60 years of life in front of it. Owners of this beauty are probably best advised to forget it for 5 years. Tasted next to a 1996 several days after the 2000 tasting, the 1996, which is a perfect wine, was far closer to full maturity than the 2000.WS 100 (3/2003): Subtle aromas of currants, leather, tobacco and cedar. Classic cigar box nose, with fruit. Full-bodied, with an amazing texture of silky, ripe tannins. This wine completely coats your palate, but caresses it at the same time. This is the best young Lafite ever made. A triumph. Best after 2012. 18,000 cases made.IWC 96 (6/2003): Full medium ruby. Flamboyantly perfumed aromas of cassis, graphite and tobacco, lifted by a floral nuance and stony minerality. Very young and precise but not austere or forbidding. A remarkably rich, silky, seamless Lafite with superb vibrancy for the vintage. Tannins are noble and the aristocratic finishing flavors go on and on. I tasted this from a 375 ml. bottle, but from all reports this wine is equally approachable right now from a standard bottle. Has more sheer density than the beautiful 2001 and may well soon shut down in the bottle._x000D_http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 98+ (6/2010): Since I gave this wine a perfect score, I suppose some could see this as a downgrade. I found everything still there for a perfect rating, but I was just struck by how tight and backward the wine was. A blend of 93.3% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, the wine still has a dark ruby/purple color and an extraordinarily youthful nose of graphite, black currants, sweet, unsmoked cigar tobacco, and flowers. The wine is rich, medium to full-bodied, but has that ethereal elegance and purity that is always Lafite. I originally predicted that it would first reach maturity in 2011, but I would push that back by 5-7 years now, although it has 50-60 years of life in front of it. Owners of this beauty are probably best advised to forget it for 5 years. Tasted next to a 1996 several days after the 2000 tasting, the 1996, which is a perfect wine, was far closer to full maturity than the 2000.WS 100 (3/2003): Subtle aromas of currants, leather, tobacco and cedar. Classic cigar box nose, with fruit. Full-bodied, with an amazing texture of silky, ripe tannins. This wine completely coats your palate, but caresses it at the same time. This is the best young Lafite ever made. A triumph. Best after 2012. 18,000 cases made.IWC 96 (6/2003): Full medium ruby. Flamboyantly perfumed aromas of cassis, graphite and tobacco, lifted by a floral nuance and stony minerality. Very young and precise but not austere or forbidding. A remarkably rich, silky, seamless Lafite with superb vibrancy for the vintage. Tannins are noble and the aristocratic finishing flavors go on and on. I tasted this from a 375 ml. bottle, but from all reports this wine is equally approachable right now from a standard bottle. Has more sheer density than the beautiful 2001 and may well soon shut down in the bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 94 (4/2005): A brilliant offering and a candidate for wine of the vintage, this is classic Lafite that reminded me somewhat of the 1976, although the vintage conditions were completely different. This is a medium-weight, quintessentially elegant style of Lafite with notes of lead pencil shavings/graphite along with black currants, plums, and crushed rocks/mineral. Wonderfully pure, dense, with a deep ruby/purple color and loads of fruit, definition, and a long finish, this is a brilliant, elegant Lafite Rothschild that builds incrementally in the mouth and has more power and density than it initially seems. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 94 (4/2005): A brilliant offering and a candidate for wine of the vintage, this is classic Lafite that reminded me somewhat of the 1976, although the vintage conditions were completely different. This is a medium-weight, quintessentially elegant style of Lafite with notes of lead pencil shavings/graphite along with black currants, plums, and crushed rocks/mineral. Wonderfully pure, dense, with a deep ruby/purple color and loads of fruit, definition, and a long finish, this is a brilliant, elegant Lafite Rothschild that builds incrementally in the mouth and has more power and density than it initially seems. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 100 (4/2006): A modern day version of the 1959 Lafite, the 2003 Lafite Rothschild was bottled in mid-May, 2005 after achieving 12.9% natural alcohol - hardly an astonishing figure given the vintage’s weather conditions. A combination of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, it represents a ripe version of the essence of Lafite-Rothschild. Dense purple-colored, with classic notes of graphite intertwined with melted licorice, creme de cassis, smoke, and flowers, it reveals extraordinary richness, opulence, power, purity, intensity, and viscosity. Whether this wine will close down or not is questionable as it is somewhat atypical given its sweetness and softness. Analytically, there are extremely high tannins, which I suspect will assert themselves in the future. Production in 2003 was less than half of normal. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2050.WS 96 (3/2006): Subtle, complex aromas of berries, licorice and currants. Full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Very well-integrated wine. Lovely stuff. Wonderful length and finesse. Best after 2012. 20,000 cases made.IWC 93-97 (6/2004): Bright ruby-red. Blueberry, licorice, fresh herbs, flowers and a whiff of coconut on the rather medicinal nose. Sweet, dense and pure, with superb inner-mouth energy, especially for a wine so ripe. But this is also wonderfully round and atypically lush, without any rough edges. Expressive flavors of redcurrant, minerals and tobacco. Broadens out impressively toward the back and finishes with an explosion of fruits and dark chocolate. Hard to assess today with confidence (and I may well be underrating this wine): does this have the classic Lafite grip under the impressive baby fat?http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 100 (4/2006): A modern day version of the 1959 Lafite, the 2003 Lafite Rothschild was bottled in mid-May, 2005 after achieving 12.9% natural alcohol - hardly an astonishing figure given the vintage’s weather conditions. A combination of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, it represents a ripe version of the essence of Lafite-Rothschild. Dense purple-colored, with classic notes of graphite intertwined with melted licorice, creme de cassis, smoke, and flowers, it reveals extraordinary richness, opulence, power, purity, intensity, and viscosity. Whether this wine will close down or not is questionable as it is somewhat atypical given its sweetness and softness. Analytically, there are extremely high tannins, which I suspect will assert themselves in the future. Production in 2003 was less than half of normal. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2050.WS 96 (3/2006): Subtle, complex aromas of berries, licorice and currants. Full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Very well-integrated wine. Lovely stuff. Wonderful length and finesse. Best after 2012. 20,000 cases made.IWC 93-97 (6/2004): Bright ruby-red. Blueberry, licorice, fresh herbs, flowers and a whiff of coconut on the rather medicinal nose. Sweet, dense and pure, with superb inner-mouth energy, especially for a wine so ripe. But this is also wonderfully round and atypically lush, without any rough edges. Expressive flavors of redcurrant, minerals and tobacco. Broadens out impressively toward the back and finishes with an explosion of fruits and dark chocolate. Hard to assess today with confidence (and I may well be underrating this wine): does this have the classic Lafite grip under the impressive baby fat?http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 95 (6/2007): This beautiful, stunningly dense purple-colored effort (includes about 90% Cabernet Sauvignon) offers up precise notes of graphite, black cherries, cassis, scorched earth, and minerals. Medium to full-bodied with fabulous fruit, impressive richness, refreshing acidity, and sweet tannin, this beauty should be approachable in 4-5 years, and last for three decades. As Lafite Rothschilds go, this is somewhat of a sleeper vintage.IWC 93 (6/2007): Medium ruby-red. Scented nose offers plum, mocha, licorice, graphite, flowers and tobacco. Suave, silky and fine-grained, with lovely inner-mouth aromatic character and energy. Perfumed flavors of redcurrant, minerals and cedar. Finishes very long and firm, with terrific grip for this mostly gentle vintage.WS 93 (3/2007): Intense aromas of currant, coffee, toasty oak and sweet tobacco follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins, great mouthfeel and a long finish. A refined Lafite. Best after 2012. 22,080 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWS 98 (3/2008): Delivers blackberry, dried porcini, tobacco and licorice aromas. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and loads of dark chocolate, cigar box, currant, berry and mineral. The finish is long, with a coffee, almost meaty, aftertaste. Very beautiful and balanced. Best after 2013.IWC 97 (6/2008): Bright medium ruby. Knockout nose combines black- and redcurrant, minerals, graphite, licorice and lavender. Wonderfully suave and seamless, but with great purity and precision of flavor and terrific inner-palate perfume and lift. This dances over every square millimeter of the palate. Almost painfully young today, with an impression of fresh acidity serving to intensify the wine's flavors. About as austere a wine as I tasted from this vintage in April and yet it's not hard. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and a whiplash of minerally perfume. I'd forget about this one for about 15 years. WA 96+ (4/2008): While the 2005 is another brilliantly classic Lafite Rothschild, for my taste, it comes in slightly behind their extraordinarily opulent 2003 as well as the dramatically powerful 2000. A blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot, the 2005 boasts a dark ruby/purple color in addition to that exceptional Lafite perfume of graphite, spring flowers, crushed rocks, and sweet black cherry and black currant fruit that exudes class and nobility. The wine is medium-bodied with extremely high levels of tannin in addition to sensational purity, length, and overall harmony. However, it is exceptionally backward, and even more tannic than either the 1995 or 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050+http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWS 98 (3/2008): Delivers blackberry, dried porcini, tobacco and licorice aromas. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and loads of dark chocolate, cigar box, currant, berry and mineral. The finish is long, with a coffee, almost meaty, aftertaste. Very beautiful and balanced. Best after 2013.IWC 97 (6/2008): Bright medium ruby. Knockout nose combines black- and redcurrant, minerals, graphite, licorice and lavender. Wonderfully suave and seamless, but with great purity and precision of flavor and terrific inner-palate perfume and lift. This dances over every square millimeter of the palate. Almost painfully young today, with an impression of fresh acidity serving to intensify the wine's flavors. About as austere a wine as I tasted from this vintage in April and yet it's not hard. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and a whiplash of minerally perfume. I'd forget about this one for about 15 years. WA 96+ (4/2008): While the 2005 is another brilliantly classic Lafite Rothschild, for my taste, it comes in slightly behind their extraordinarily opulent 2003 as well as the dramatically powerful 2000. A blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot, the 2005 boasts a dark ruby/purple color in addition to that exceptional Lafite perfume of graphite, spring flowers, crushed rocks, and sweet black cherry and black currant fruit that exudes class and nobility. The wine is medium-bodied with extremely high levels of tannin in addition to sensational purity, length, and overall harmony. However, it is exceptionally backward, and even more tannic than either the 1995 or 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050+http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 97 (2/2009): One of the fabulous surprises, although I had suggested last year that it could jump in quality, of my tastings, the 2006 Lafite Rothschild is a great, great wine made from a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot. When I tasted it from barrel, it reminded me of their successful 1988, but it is dramatically superior to that vintage. Frankly, it may turn out to be as good as the 2005, which in all of Bordeaux is a far greater vintage than 2006. Lafite’s severe selection process (42% made it into the grand vin) resulted in a full-bodied wine boasting an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, truffles, lead pencil shavings, and sensationally sweet, ripe black currant and cedar notes. A wine of extraordinary intensity, texture, and depth with silky tannins as well as awesome concentration, this has turned out to be a remarkable Lafite Rothschild that should be drinkable much earlier than the 2005, but age for three decades. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2035+.IWC 95+ (6/2009): Good full ruby-red. Very ripe aromas of cassis, graphite and cedar chips, lifted by peppery and floral high notes. Densely packed and superconcentrated but light on its feet, with compelling flavors of spicy berries and minerals. The very long, slow-building finish stains the palate with flavor. Very backward but not austere; and unlike some recent vintages of Lafite, which could appear deceptively light in the early going, this showcases its density and ripeness from the outset. I have the impression that most of the less-ripe fruit was declassified into the far lighter Carruades de Lafite (87), which shows a distinctly cool style for the year.WS 95 (3/2009): Plum, sweet tobacco and blackberry aromas follow through to a full body, offering a tight, chewy palate, yet with polished, refined tannins. Very long and caressing. This turns to a muscular and toned young wine. Gets better and better with age. Best after 2014. 23,330 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 98 (5/2011): A candidate for the -wine of the vintage,- the 2008 should have been purchased before it began to soar in value because of the significance of the number 8 in the Chinese culture (denoting good luck). Representing 40% of the production, this blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc offers aromas of high quality unsmoked cigar tobacco, lead pencil shavings, creme de cassis, earth, cedar and asphalt. Full, rich and stunningly concentrated, I doubt it is inferior to the 2010, just more classic as well as slightly more forward and a degree weaker in alcoholic potency (12.5% versus 13.5%). The 2008 should be relatively drinkable in 6-10 years as it is already showing remarkable complexity and breed, and will last for 30-35 years...at the minimum.WS 92 (4/2011): Supple and harmonious already, with inviting, almost plush blackberry, plum and fig fruit notes carried by fine-grained, lightly cedary structure. Black tea and sandalwood flash on the finish. Poised now, but has the stuffing for more time in bottle. Drink now through 2020. IWC 92-94 (6/2009): (a blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 13% merlot and 4% cabernet franc) Deep purple-ruby. Dense, rich, absolutely classic Lafite nose redolent of blackcurrant, cedar and graphite. Enters fat, with blackberry, licorice and underbrush flavors framed by strong but harmonious acids and youthful tannins that will need time to resolve. This is presently the most backward and closed of the Medoc first growths in '08, but should prove spectacular in time: insiders know that cooler vintages such as '08 are perfectly suited to Lafite's terroir, a case in point being the '88, an initially austere wine that has come around magnificently.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafiteRothschild.aspWA 87 (6/1996): This is a chunky, muscular, big wine that has never developed a harmonious character. It appears the tannin will not become fully integrated. Secondly, the wine is deficient in complexity. Nevertheless, this is a full-bodied, flavorful, admirably concentrated, burly wine with an impressive saturated dark ruby color with a hint of amber at the edge. This leathery, tannic 1970 reveals a taste of concentrated, roasted meat and beef blood. There is no rush to drink it, but I do not anticipate much improvement in this wine.WS 80 (5/1993): Medium garnet; green tea and mild mulberry nose; lean, elegant and austere; light but gentle; lacking character; very dry.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafonRochet.aspWS 91 (3/2003): Concentrated wine. Intense aromas of grilled meat, spice and plum skin. Full-bodied, with big silky tannins and lots of fruit. Long and chewy. Best after 2007. 11,165 cases made.WA 90 (4/2003): One of the better wines (and also reasonably priced) to emerge from this property over recent years, this dense ruby/purple-colored wine shows a complex nose of earth, underbrush, creosote, creme de cassis, and dried herbs. Sporting a new yellow/orange label that matches the dramatic paint job on the chateau itself, the wine has a deep ruby/purple color, medium to full body, fine ripeness as well as purity, and moderate tannin in the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016.IWC 90 (6/2003): Dark red. Assertive, oaky nose features smoked meat and leather. Sweet, dense and packed with fruit. Really spreads out on the back end, finishing with broad, powerful tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafonRochet.aspWS 91 (3/2004): Very fresh and aromatic, with licorice, violet and light vanilla character. Full-bodied, with a super core of fruit and fantastically silky tannins. Lovely finish. Best after 2007. 10,415 cases made.IWC 88-90 (6/2003): Highly aromatic nose combines red fruits, iron and leather, plus a floral nuance. Lush and sweet, with complex flavors of spicy red fruits, game and milk chocolate. A very stylish wine, with the ripe tannins showing a distinctly firm edge from the wine's small component of cabernet franc. "Vintage 2000 is opulent and powerful, the most American of our recent vintages," says Franc, "while 2001 is more intellectual, more Bordelais, more a wine of finesse."WA 88 (6/2004): Performing much better than it did from barrel, Lafon-Rochet’s 2001 exhibits a dark ruby/purple color along with complex aromas of underbrush, melted licorice, black fruits, and tree bark. Smooth, polished tannins are found in this medium to full-bodied, monolithic but attractive, well-endowed St.-Estephe. It is revealing more aromatic development and depth than I originally suspected. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2013.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLafonRochet.aspWA 73 (3/1990): This wine has consistently displayed a dull, one-dimensional character with barely adequate fruit, as well as a mouthful of tannin in the finish. Perhaps I have missed something along the way, but I would opt for drinking it over the near term because its balance is slightly suspect. Anticipated maturity: Now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLagrange.aspWA 73 (3/1990): This wine has consistently displayed a dull, one-dimensional character with barely adequate fruit, as well as a mouthful of tannin in the finish. Perhaps I have missed something along the way, but I would opt for drinking it over the near term because its balance is slightly suspect. Anticipated maturity: Now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLagrange.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLagrange.aspIWC 93+ (10/2004): Bright medium ruby. Highly complex aromas of blackberry, violet pastille, eucalyptus, leather and game. Wonderfully sweet but with terrific grip, even a touch of youthful austerity. Very classy, subtle wine with terrific inner-mouth energy. Builds very slowly on the back half, finishing with noble, fine-grained tannins and terrific grip. This makes the 1995 seem almost cooked by comparison. Still needs at least five or six years of cellaring. "We always had unusual tastes in this wine, like eucalyptus and menthol, due to the cool September nights," noted Ducasse. WS 91 (12/2007): Wonderful aromas of blackberry, light spices and currant follow through to a full-bodied palate, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Still tannic and tight.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2008. 24,000 cases made.WA 90 (4/1999): This impeccably run, Japanese-owned property has fashioned a superb 1996. Opaque purple-colored, with a backward yet promising nose of classically pure cassis intermixed with pain grille and spice, this medium to full-bodied, powerful yet stylish wine possesses superb purity, a nicely-layered feel in the mouth, and plenty of structure. It will not be an early-drinking St.-Julien, but one to lay away and enjoy over the next 2-3 decades. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLagrange.aspWA 87 (6/2007): Sweet cherry, dusty, loamy soil, and forest floor-like characteristics make an appearance in this medium-bodied, elegant, pretty, but somewhat superficial 2004. Enjoy its charm and suppleness over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLanessan.aspWA 90 (4/2005): The saturated ruby/plum-tinged 2002 reveals a tight but promising nose of underbrush, new saddle leather, damp earth, black currants and cherries. It is a strongly structured, potent effort with medium to full body, and impressive purity, but loads of tannin presented in a frightfully backward style. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. I seem to consistently underrate this wine when it is young.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLangoaBarton.aspWS 92 (3/2008): Wonderful aromas of licorice, crushed blackberry and mineral. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and vanilla, berry and aniseed flavors. Has a long, long finish. Best after 2015. 6,665 cases made. IWC 90 (6/2008): Good ruby-red. Rich plummy aroma. Deep and chewy if a bit youthfully sullen, with sweet flavors of redcurrant, mocha and tobacco. Finishes with chewy tannins. Distinctly fatter than the 2006 but a bit less chocolatey and dark in its flavor presentation. WA 90 (4/2008): This primordial-styled, incredibly tannic St.-Julien reveals a dense purple color along with aromas of roasted meats, tapenade, cassis, melted licorice, and chocolate. Following the promising aromatic display, the wine shuts down in the mouth, revealing only excruciating tannin and good acidity. It will not be ready to drink for at least 15 years. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2040.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLangoaBarton.aspWS 91 (3/2009): Shows violet and blackberry, with hints of raisin. Full and velvety, with lovely-textured tannins and plenty of ripe fruit on the finish. Balanced and rich. Best after 2013. 4,710 cases made.WA 89+ (2/2009): This tastes more like a Pauillac than a St.-Julien with its big, beefy, tannic overlay and aromas and flavors of black currants, asphalt, leather, and damp earth. Tannic, full-bodied but almost impenetrably closed and broodingly backward, this is a long-term prospect for those with patience. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030+.IWC 88+ (6/2009): Bright red-ruby. Currant, black cherry, licorice, tar and minerals on the nose. Juicy, tightly wound and penetrating, with very good intensity but a distinct austerity to the medicinal dark fruit and mineral flavors. Brisk and delineated wine, finishing with firm, building tannins that call for five or six years of patience.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLangoaBarton.aspWS 92 (3/2003): Blackberry, licorice and lightly toasted oak. Full-bodied, with refined and chewy tannins and a subtle, rich berry and mineral aftertaste. Lovely wine. Best after 2011. 5,665 cases made._x000D__x000D__x000D_WA 90 (4/2006): The outstanding 2003, a softer version of the Leoville Barton, exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, sweet black cherries intermixed with subtle herbal notes, roasted meats, juices, and black currants. In the mouth, it is expansive, savory, round, and seemingly on a much faster evolutionary track than Leoville Barton. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 15-18 years._x000D__x000D__x000D_IWC 89 (6/2006): Ruby-red. Exotic, full-blown aromas of coffee, leather and game, with distinct suggestions of roasted fruits. Fat, dense and lush, with a very sweet, chocolatey flavor and a suggestion of roasted nuts. A big wine with big, ripe tannins. I like what the heat of the vintage has done for this property. But this wine may be in the process of closing down in the bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLangoaBarton.aspWA 98 (4/2008): This great terroir on the Cote Pavie has long been recognized as one of the most privileged spots in St.-Emilion, but it was not until the wunderkind duo of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt took over in 2002 that the wine finally began to live up to its potential. Old timers who remember the 1945 Larcis Ducasse will attest to how great this cuvee can be. Sadly, fewer than 3,000 cases were produced of the 2005, a blend of 78% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Franc with a small dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Yields were a modest 27 hectoliters per hectare. This stunning effort reveals one of the most extraordinary aromatic displays of the vintage, offering up notes of sweet roasted herbs, jus du viande, black olives, espresso roast, creme de cassis, and kirsch liqueur. Extremely full-bodied, opulent, and lavishly textured with plush tannin as well as an ethereal elegance, a sublime personality, glorious sweet purity, and a layered texture, this amazing St.-Emilion is destined to become a legend. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2028.WS 95 (3/2008): This is very grapey, with plenty of crushed blackberry and vanilla undertones, and floral as well. Full-bodied, soft and silky. Gushes with fruit. Hard not to drink this now, but give it some time. The fruit is amazing. Such purity. Best after 2014. 3,080 cases made.IWC 94 (6/2008): Ruby-red. Superripe, vibrant nose offers cherry, blueberry, blackberry, mocha and fruity dark chocolate. Rich and wonderfully fine-grained, with excellent acidity leavening the impression of superripeness and giving cut to the intense dark berry, plum and mineral flavors. Finishes very long and lush, with a fine dusting of tannins and noteworthy subtlety. With its 14.5% alcohol, this is a big boy, but its energy and balance are impressive for such an opulent wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLarcis-Ducasse.aspWA 90 (4/2001): Classic as well as complex scents of smoky tobacco, cigar box, scorched earth, black currants, and cherries are vividly displayed in this wine's intense aromas. In the mouth, it is medium-bodied, spicy, soft, as well as expressive. This dense plum/purple, elegant beauty is deep, long, and harmonious. A sleeper of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2018.WS 90 (1/2001): Captivating aromas of berry, raspberry and mineral. Full-bodied, with very silky, well-integrated tannins and a long finish. A caressing wine from a château to watch. Best after 2007.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLarrivetHautBrion.aspWS 91 (3/2003): Very ripe fruit on the nose, with hints of tobacco and cedar. Full-bodied, with big, chewy tannins, yet soft and luscious. Best after 2007. 14,165 cases made.WA 90 (4/2003): The deep ruby/purple-colored 2000's rich, complex perfume displhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLarrivetHautBrion.aspMB ***** (11/2000): A great wine. Surely one of the best ever Latours, drinking beautifully now but with many years more life. As with Lafite, not tasted in my early years in the trade. My first note was made in October 1967: 'deep'; very rich, 'packed' (bouquet); dry, extremely fivorous and youthful for a 22-year old, with plenty of tannin and acidity. 'A good strapping drink'. And so on for another 28 notes through the next three decades. What I have noticed, as it matured further, is its increasing sweetness. An amalgam of notes gathered at dinners and tastings: always deep, with an opaque core; spicy bouquet, eucalyptus, cedar, smoky tea (Lapsang), cheesy- not smeely cheese but a sort of sweaty tannin. Full-bodied, rich, complete, silky tannins, complex, great length. The very best: a double magnum from Lenoir Josey's cellar at a Wine and Food Society dinner in Houston in 1983. Served last it trounced the preceding 'stars', including Lafite and Margaux '53, the exquisite Mouton '49 and others.WS 100 (8/2000): Perfect in every way. Dark ruby color with anamber edge. Aromas of mint, berry, blackberry,earth and spices pop out of the glass. Full-bodiedand brimming over with sweet fruit character, ripeand velvety tannins. Long and succulent finish.What more could you want in a wine? Best bottle of1945 Latour I have ever had.--Latourvertical. Drink now. WA 90 (6/2000): This has always been an irregular vintage. I purchased a mixed case of the 1945 Latour, some of which had been reconditioned at the Chateau and others with the original corks. Those with the original corks always seemed to be the best, with a handful of them meriting ratings in the 95-98 range.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWS 92 (8/2000): Better than I anticipated. A sleek and racy wine.Ruby-amber color. Aromas of cedar, cigar box,tobacco, mint and mushrooms, with hints of redfruits, follow though to a medium body with finetannins and a long, silky finish. Excellent now,but a little more bottle age would only improveit.--Latour vertical. Best after 2005. –JSWA 90 (6/2000): Medium garnet-colored with moderate amber at the edge, the 1978 Latour offers a spicy, saddle leather, tobacco, dried herb, earthy nose with sweet fruit trying to poke through. Interestingly, new oak also makes an appearance in the flavors. Medium-bodied, elegant, and fragrant, but possibly beginning to dry out, this fully mature wine requires consumption over the next decade. Anticipated maturity: now-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 100 (6/2000) As I indicated in the review of the 1982 Bordeaux, this is an unusual Latour in the fact that it has always been precocious. It has been jammy, forward, and delicious no matter when the cork was pulled, in total contrast to its two first-growth siblings, Mouton Rothschild and Lafite-Rothschild. The dense, opaque garnet-colored 1982 Latour reveals slight amber at the edge. Sweet, smoky, roasted aromas in the nose combine with jammy levels of black currant, cherry, and prune-like fruit. It possesses extraordinary concentration and unctuosity, with a thick, fat texture oozing notes of cedar wood, tobacco, coffee, and over-ripe fruit. Low acidity as well as high alcohol (for Bordeaux) give the wine even more glycerin and textural chewiness. The finish lasts forever. The only Latour that remotely resembles the 1982 is the 1961, which has a similar texture and succulence. Anticipated maturity: now-2040WS 98 (6/2001): Big and chewy. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, long currant, berry and cherry character. Underrated. Still more to come in this wine.WC 97 (8/2002): Dark red, with an amber rim. Liqueur-like aromas of plum, roasted meat, mocha, tobacco, truffle and burnished oak. Fat, lush and smooth, with explosive fruit and powerful underlying backbone. Massive but not at all heavy. Wonderfully tactile wine, finishing with big, chewy-but-ripe tannins and great persistence. (My second bottle showed even more class and delineation, and rated 98.) Drink during your lifetime.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 100 (6/2000) As I indicated in the review of the 1982 Bordeaux, this is an unusual Latour in the fact that it has always been precocious. It has been jammy, forward, and delicious no matter when the cork was pulled, in total contrast to its two first-growth siblings, Mouton Rothschild and Lafite-Rothschild. The dense, opaque garnet-colored 1982 Latour reveals slight amber at the edge. Sweet, smoky, roasted aromas in the nose combine with jammy levels of black currant, cherry, and prune-like fruit. It possesses extraordinary concentration and unctuosity, with a thick, fat texture oozing notes of cedar wood, tobacco, coffee, and over-ripe fruit. Low acidity as well as high alcohol (for Bordeaux) give the wine even more glycerin and textural chewiness. The finish lasts forever. The only Latour that remotely resembles the 1982 is the 1961, which has a similar texture and succulence. Anticipated maturity: now-2040WS 98 (6/2001): Big and chewy. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, long currant, berry and cherry character. Underrated. Still more to come in this wine.WC 97 (8/2002): Dark red, with an amber rim. Liqueur-like aromas of plum, roasted meat, mocha, tobacco, truffle and burnished oak. Fat, lush and smooth, with explosive fruit and powerful underlying backbone. Massive but not at all heavy. Wonderfully tactile wine, finishing with big, chewy-but-ripe tannins and great persistence. (My second bottle showed even more class and delineation, and rated 98.) Drink during your lifetime.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspMB ***[*]: Not quite as many notes but well spread, the first, just before fining in September 1986. Unsurprisingly, an intense purple, loaded with blackcurrant fruit, full, tannic yet surprisingly fleshy. In its fifth year, still very deep of course but its nose evolving well: chocolate, coffee, biscuity, tobacco- a whole raft of sweet, interesting aromas; sweet ripeness on the palate, a feature continuously noted, fairly massively constructed, highish alcohol and tanning, yet leaving one with a feeling of warmth. A rich, broad-shouldered wine. Of the several notes made in the mid- to late 1980s, I shall just pick out two. A 'Reserve tasting of PremierBordeaux Wines' I conducted at the first, and the last, Palm Beach Internatinal Food and Wine Fair, in February 1998: medium deep and mature-looking, with a mahogany rim; bouquet low-keyed at first but which opened up marvellously; gloriously sweet and full of fruit. Good length and finish. Still tannic. Most recently, in first-growth company at Stephen Kaplan's 1985 Vintage event: bouquet by now ripe, almost meaty, opening up beautifully in the glass and after an hour, fully evolved, 'biscuity'. I do not leave the wine untouched. By the time that hour has elapsed, little remains in the glass! On the palate a full, rich, almost mocha-flavoured wine, with an excellent dry finish. Lovely now but so much more to come.WS 93 (8/2000): Rich and ripe wine. Dark red color with an amber edge. Loads of meat, berry and tobacco character on the nose. Very rich. Full-bodied, with soft, velvety tannins and a long, ultraripe fruit finish. Still very fresh and young. Best from 2000 through 2015.WA 88 (6/2000): This wine was tasted from my personal collection, following the Latour tasting. The 1985 Latour is a soft, open-knit example, without much structure, delineation, and depth. The dark ruby color displays amber at the edge. The bouquet of tobacco, black fruits, herbs, earth, and new oak is pleasant, but neither intense nor persistent. The wine is medium-bodied, with sweet fruit on the attack, but it narrows out to reveal dry tannin and herbaceous notes. Anticipated maturity: now-2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 90 (1/1998): This wine has developed in a perplexing manner, although it still needs another 5-10 years of bottle age before it reaches that magical plateau of maturity. The color remains a dark murky garnet with some purple at the edges. The nose has developed Latour's classic aromas of black currants and walnuts, as well as scents of tar, earth, and a touch of peppery herbs. This medium to full-bodied wine possesses high tannin, and excellent to outstanding concentration. Given the top quality level achieved by many other northern Medoc 1986s, Latour will always, I suspect, be considered somewhat of a disappointment for the vintage. It is well behind its rivals - Chateau Margaux, Lafite-Rothschild, and Mouton-Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2015. Last tasted 1/97WS 90 (6/2001): Outstanding, but slightly unimpressive. Dark red color. Complex aromas of blackberries, dark chocolate, tar and minerals. Medium- to full-bodied and balanced, with fine tannins and a silky texture.--Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWS 94 (12/2010): This is so decadent and exciting on the nose, with very ripe fruit, tobacco, meat and cedar. Full-bodied, offering amazing raspberry fruit in the core of the palate. Ultrapolished, velvety tannins wonderfully coat every inch of your palate. This will age for years ahead, but it's so lovely now. Much better than many people think. '89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now. 17,000 cases made. MB ***[*]: Also tasted in the spring and autumn of 1990: black as Egypt's night, its 100% new oak very apparent. Never easy to taste when immature and even the following November, though it had a tantalising cedar and Cabernet Sauvignon scent, and on the palate all the components in abundance, one might as well 'shut up shop'- cellar it and forget it. At the masterclass in New York (April 1995), it was certainly impressive and though a big wine, like Lafite, only had 12.5% alcohol. Nose strongly Cabernet, mouthwatering, extensive; crisp lovely flavour with refreshing acidity and a bitter tannic finish. At the Penning-Rowsells' in 1999, less deep, a luminous ruby; very fragrant nose; distinctive, full-flavoured, crisp, complete. The bitterness not noted but it had more acidity than the other first growths. Most recently, one of eight grands formats, all 1er cru except Figeac (and the Lafite turned out to be a '95) served by larger-than-life Walter Eigensatz at dinner. A jeroboam: my notes uncannily similar to the bottle at Penning-Rowsell's two year before. A marvellous mouthful despite its edgy tannic finish. Possibly 5-star if the astringency mellows. Drink 2010-2025.WA 89 (6/2000): This wine was tasted at a vertical tasting held in Charlotte, North Carolina several days before the Christie tasting. The Latour staff spoke far more highly of the 1989 than my experience has shown.It possesses many characteristics that make great vintages of Bordeaux so alluring - softness, overripeness, and sweet fruit. The problem is that there are insufficient quantities of these components.An evolved dark ruby color reveals amber at the edge. The nose offers aromas of caramel, coffee, ripe black cherry and currant fruit, cedar, and spice box. Although medium-bodied, with low acidity, the wine lacks richness in the mid-palate, and is surprisingly abrupt in the finish. It is a very fine, delicious Latour, but it is hard to believe it will attain the weight and flavor dimensions its producers suggest. Anticipated maturity: now-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWS 94 (12/2010): This is so decadent and exciting on the nose, with very ripe fruit, tobacco, meat and cedar. Full-bodied, offering amazing raspberry fruit in the core of the palate. Ultrapolished, velvety tannins wonderfully coat every inch of your palate. This will age for years ahead, but it's so lovely now. Much better than many people think. '89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now. 17,000 cases made. MB ***[*]: Also tasted in the spring and autumn of 1990: black as Egypt's night, its 100% new oak very apparent. Never easy to taste when immature and even the following November, though it had a tantalising cedar and Cabernet Sauvignon scent, and on the palate all the components in abundance, one might as well 'shut up shop'- cellar it and forget it. At the masterclass in New York (April 1995), it was certainly impressive and though a big wine, like Lafite, only had 12.5% alcohol. Nose strongly Cabernet, mouthwatering, extensive; crisp lovely flavour with refreshing acidity and a bitter tannic finish. At the Penning-Rowsells' in 1999, less deep, a luminous ruby; very fragrant nose; distinctive, full-flavoured, crisp, complete. The bitterness not noted but it had more acidity than the other first growths. Most recently, one of eight grands formats, all 1er cru except Figeac (and the Lafite turned out to be a '95) served by larger-than-life Walter Eigensatz at dinner. A jeroboam: my notes uncannily similar to the bottle at Penning-Rowsell's two year before. A marvellous mouthful despite its edgy tannic finish. Possibly 5-star if the astringency mellows. Drink 2010-2025.WA 89 (6/2000): This wine was tasted at a vertical tasting held in Charlotte, North Carolina several days before the Christie tasting. The Latour staff spoke far more highly of the 1989 than my experience has shown.It possesses many characteristics that make great vintages of Bordeaux so alluring - softness, overripeness, and sweet fruit. The problem is that there are insufficient quantities of these components.An evolved dark ruby color reveals amber at the edge. The nose offers aromas of caramel, coffee, ripe black cherry and currant fruit, cedar, and spice box. Although medium-bodied, with low acidity, the wine lacks richness in the mid-palate, and is surprisingly abrupt in the finish. It is a very fine, delicious Latour, but it is hard to believe it will attain the weight and flavor dimensions its producers suggest. Anticipated maturity: now-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWS 91 (8/2000): Dark ruby color. Decadent aromas of meat, figs and ripe fruit. Full-bodied, with a very good, compacted, fruity structure and a long, long, ripe fruit and earth finish. This is a seriously good bottle. Great value. Love it.--Latour vertical. Best after 2005. WA 89 (2/1994): After Latour's exquisite performance in 1990, the 1991 is somewhat of a let-down. Nevertheless, it is a candidate for the wine of the vintage because of its concentration and class. After a strict selection, only 11,500 cases were made. The wine offers a dense, dark ruby color, and a reticent but promising bouquet of black-cherries, cassis, minerals, roasted nuts, spices, and subtle herbs. Medium-bodied, with excellent richness, fine glycerin, and aggressive tannin, this ripe, muscular, beefy 1991 needs 5-6 years to shed its tannin; it should last for 15 or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 94 (1/1997): This is an interesting as well as great vintage for Latour. As indicated in my barrel tasting report, Latour's 1994 possesses an atypically high percentage of Merlot (27%) in the final blend. Because of this, the wine appears to have a sweeter, more fleshy texture than is typical for a young Latour, but do not make the mistake of thinking this will be a commercially-styled, easy to drink wine. It exhibits an opaque dark ruby/purple color, and a backward, intense textbook nose of walnut and cassis scents complemented by smoky pain grille notes that build in the glass. This full-bodied, powerful, layered Latour reveals high tannin, but no bitterness or astringency. The superb purity, fabulous precision, and remarkable length should ensure 35-40 years of longevity. Readers will find more fat, flesh, and glycerin than usual for a young Latour (save for such great vintages as 1982 and 1990), but don't be deceived, this wine requires 8-10 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 96 (6/2000): A beauty, the opaque dense purple-colored 1995 exhibits jammy cassis, vanillin, and minerals in its fragrant but still youthful aromatics. Medium to full-bodied, with exceptional purity, superb concentration, and a long, intense, ripe, 40-second finish, this is a magnificent example of Latour. As the wine sat in the glass, scents of roasted espresso and toasty new oak emerged. This classic will require considerable cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050.IWC 94+ (6/1998): Deep ruby-red color. More expressive aromas of crystallized dark berries, dark chocolate and animal fur. Lush and sweet; thick but delineated. Wonderfully concentrated. This, too, seems rather withdrawn today, but the strength of material is clear to see. Finishes with firm tannins and explosive fruit that goes on and on. WS 94 (12/2007): Black licorice, cedar, cigar box and fresh herbs. Full-bodied and very structured, with firm, silky tannins and a long finish. Needs time.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2009.JR 18 (11/2005): Very full and sumptuous with a meaty edge to it. This could be Latour? Thick and dense. Extremely vigorous and lively. Good for drinking over the long term too. Drink 2009 to 2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 90 (4/2001): Not a blockbuster, the 1998 possesses a dark garnet/purple color in addition to a complex bouquet of underbrush, cedar, walnuts, and licorice-tinged black currants. Although medium to full-bodied and moderately tannic, it lacks the expansiveness in the mid-palate necessary to be truly great. Moreover, the tannin is slightly aggressive, although that is hardly unusual in such a young Latour. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 94 (4/2002): Readers looking for a modern day version of Latour's magnificent 1962 or 1971 should check out the sensational 1999 Latour. It is a big, concentrated offering, exhibiting a dense ruby/purple color, and a classic nose of minerals, black currants, leather, and vanilla. The wine is long, ripe, and medium-bodied, with high levels of sweet tannin. This surprisingly full, concentrated 1999 should be drinkable in 5-6 years; it will last for three decades.WS 93 (3/2002): Big, yet racy '99. Shows blackberry aromas, with a hint of spice, and is full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit, firm tannins and a dark chocolate and coffee aftertaste. Wonderful texture. Goes on and on. Best after 2006. 13,330 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 98 (4/2003): There are only 14,000 cases (only 48% of the crop made it into the grand vin) of the 2000, which flirts with perfection. Truly great stuff, it reveals perfect equilibrium, great finesse, yet colossal size, with a thickness and density that rival the brilliant 1996. This saturated black ruby/purple colored wine seems almost discreet on first inspection, but with aeration, notes of vanilla, exceptionally pure, mineral-infused creme de cassis, and earth emerge. Full-bodied and tannic, it should come close to representing perfection. Latour's 2000 is hard to compare with previous vintages. It obviously does not have the opulence of the 1990 and 1982, yet there is an extraordinary purity, delineation, seamlessness, and freshness to this wine that sets it apart from previous vintages. In any event, it is prodigious, with at least five decades of evolution ahead of it. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2050.IWC 97 (6/2003): Full medium ruby. Wonderfully sweet, rich aromas of cassis, minerals and bitter chocolate. A huge wine with almost painful intensity; solid as a rock and at the same time utterly sensual and creamy, with great inner-mouth complexity and depth of flavor and a complete absence of rough edges. "Almost too easy today," says Engerer. Sweet notes of roasted nuts and chocolate add to the wine's early appeal. A powerful, hugely rich Latour with a great building finish and perfectly suave tannins. This was really the last vintage of Latour with a meaningful percentage (3%) of cabernet franc, as the old franc vines were removed after 2000. But Engerer noted that Latour planted 1.5 hectares of petit verdot, which can be expected to represent up to 4% of the blend by 2004.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 98 (4/2003): There are only 14,000 cases (only 48% of the crop made it into the grand vin) of the 2000, which flirts with perfection. Truly great stuff, it reveals perfect equilibrium, great finesse, yet colossal size, with a thickness and density that rival the brilliant 1996. This saturated black ruby/purple colored wine seems almost discreet on first inspection, but with aeration, notes of vanilla, exceptionally pure, mineral-infused creme de cassis, and earth emerge. Full-bodied and tannic, it should come close to representing perfection. Latour's 2000 is hard to compare with previous vintages. It obviously does not have the opulence of the 1990 and 1982, yet there is an extraordinary purity, delineation, seamlessness, and freshness to this wine that sets it apart from previous vintages. In any event, it is prodigious, with at least five decades of evolution ahead of it. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2050.IWC 97 (6/2003): Full medium ruby. Wonderfully sweet, rich aromas of cassis, minerals and bitter chocolate. A huge wine with almost painful intensity; solid as a rock and at the same time utterly sensual and creamy, with great inner-mouth complexity and depth of flavor and a complete absence of rough edges. "Almost too easy today," says Engerer. Sweet notes of roasted nuts and chocolate add to the wine's early appeal. A powerful, hugely rich Latour with a great building finish and perfectly suave tannins. This was really the last vintage of Latour with a meaningful percentage (3%) of cabernet franc, as the old franc vines were removed after 2000. But Engerer noted that Latour planted 1.5 hectares of petit verdot, which can be expected to represent up to 4% of the blend by 2004.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 98 (4/2003): There are only 14,000 cases (only 48% of the crop made it into the grand vin) of the 2000, which flirts with perfection. Truly great stuff, it reveals perfect equilibrium, great finesse, yet colossal size, with a thickness and density that rival the brilliant 1996. This saturated black ruby/purple colored wine seems almost discreet on first inspection, but with aeration, notes of vanilla, exceptionally pure, mineral-infused creme de cassis, and earth emerge. Full-bodied and tannic, it should come close to representing perfection. Latour's 2000 is hard to compare with previous vintages. It obviously does not have the opulence of the 1990 and 1982, yet there is an extraordinary purity, delineation, seamlessness, and freshness to this wine that sets it apart from previous vintages. In any event, it is prodigious, with at least five decades of evolution ahead of it. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2050.IWC 97 (6/2003): Full medium ruby. Wonderfully sweet, rich aromas of cassis, minerals and bitter chocolate. A huge wine with almost painful intensity; solid as a rock and at the same time utterly sensual and creamy, with great inner-mouth complexity and depth of flavor and a complete absence of rough edges. "Almost too easy today," says Engerer. Sweet notes of roasted nuts and chocolate add to the wine's early appeal. A powerful, hugely rich Latour with a great building finish and perfectly suave tannins. This was really the last vintage of Latour with a meaningful percentage (3%) of cabernet franc, as the old franc vines were removed after 2000. But Engerer noted that Latour planted 1.5 hectares of petit verdot, which can be expected to represent up to 4% of the blend by 2004.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 95 (6/2004): A brilliant offering, which should be drinkable much earlier than the blockbuster 2000, the 2001 Latour boasts an inky/ruby/purple color to the rim as well as a glorious bouquet of black currants, crushed stones, vanilla, and hints of truffles and oak. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance primarily Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it reveals a sweetness on the palate that is atypical for such a young Latour. The beautiful integration of tannin, acidity, and wood is stunning. The wine flows across the palate with fabulous texture, purity, and presence. This luscious, full-bodied Latour was surprisingly open-knit on the three occasions I tasted it from bottle. However, do not mistake its aging ability as this 2001, despite its precociousness, will last 20-25 years. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025.WS 95 (3/2004): Extremely attractive aromas of blackberries and currants with just a hint of mineral and oak. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, long finish. As it was from barrel; powerful and fast. Serious stuff. Best after 2010.IWC 92+ (6/2004): Deep red-ruby. Enticing aromas of roasted plum, currant, graphite and smoky oak. Precise, spicy and juicy; more herbal than the 2002 or 2003 but also very intensely flavored and not at all hard. This very long, pure Latour seems to be shutting down today.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 100 (4/2006): There are only 10,800 cases (rather than the normal 15,000-20,000) of the 2003 Latour, a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot (13.3% finished alcohol). A prodigious effort, it boasts a saturated purple color as well as a gorgeous perfume of smoke, cedar, creme de cassis, flowers, crushed rocks, and blackberries. Massive and multi-layered, with huge richness and low acidity, it is about as unctuous as a young Latour can be. It could be compared to the 1982, but it may be even more pure, at least at this early stage, than that monumental wine. The level of intensity builds prodigiously in the mouth, and the finish lasts nearly a minute. Disarmingly accessible (although analytically the tannin level is high), I suspect it will ultimately shut down, but it was performing impeccably when I tasted it. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2040+.WS 98 (3/2006): Intense aromas of blackberry, licorice, currant and mineral. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. Very refined and beautiful. Goes on for minutes. This reminds me of the fabulous 1996. But even better. Best after 2012. 10,000 cases made.IWC 97 (6/2006): Red-ruby. Explosive aromas of plum liqueur, currant, minerals and lead pencil. Huge, lush, sweet and utterly seamless; this has the palate-caressing texture of liquid velvet. About as deep as this extreme vintage gets. Finishes with noble, compellingly sweet tannins and great length. This is amazing wine, and only its exotic character prevented me from giving it an even higher score. Interestingly, the IPT here is 65, compared to 67 for the 2005. But this voluminous and powerful wine will be more fun to drink than the 2005 for many years simply due to its sensual appeal, even if the 2005 should ultimately surpass it in verve, minerality and overall aromatic complexity. (Incidentally, Latour's third wine, simply called Pauillac, is extremely good in both 2005 and 2003-the former vintage showing terrific energy and loads of early personality, and the latter fat, round and exotic, with what Engerer described as a "Napa nose.")http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 100 (4/2006): There are only 10,800 cases (rather than the normal 15,000-20,000) of the 2003 Latour, a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot (13.3% finished alcohol). A prodigious effort, it boasts a saturated purple color as well as a gorgeous perfume of smoke, cedar, creme de cassis, flowers, crushed rocks, and blackberries. Massive and multi-layered, with huge richness and low acidity, it is about as unctuous as a young Latour can be. It could be compared to the 1982, but it may be even more pure, at least at this early stage, than that monumental wine. The level of intensity builds prodigiously in the mouth, and the finish lasts nearly a minute. Disarmingly accessible (although analytically the tannin level is high), I suspect it will ultimately shut down, but it was performing impeccably when I tasted it. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2040+.WS 98 (3/2006): Intense aromas of blackberry, licorice, currant and mineral. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. Very refined and beautiful. Goes on for minutes. This reminds me of the fabulous 1996. But even better. Best after 2012. 10,000 cases made.IWC 97 (6/2006): Red-ruby. Explosive aromas of plum liqueur, currant, minerals and lead pencil. Huge, lush, sweet and utterly seamless; this has the palate-caressing texture of liquid velvet. About as deep as this extreme vintage gets. Finishes with noble, compellingly sweet tannins and great length. This is amazing wine, and only its exotic character prevented me from giving it an even higher score. Interestingly, the IPT here is 65, compared to 67 for the 2005. But this voluminous and powerful wine will be more fun to drink than the 2005 for many years simply due to its sensual appeal, even if the 2005 should ultimately surpass it in verve, minerality and overall aromatic complexity. (Incidentally, Latour's third wine, simply called Pauillac, is extremely good in both 2005 and 2003-the former vintage showing terrific energy and loads of early personality, and the latter fat, round and exotic, with what Engerer described as a "Napa nose.")http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWS 99 (3/2008): Dark ruby black in color. Brilliant, intense aromas of mineral, blackberry and currant, with hints of Indian spices and cigar box, lead to a full-bodied palate, with ultrafine tannins and a beautiful balance of blackberry, raspberry and mineral. There's subtlety, yet also great depth. Lasts for minutes on the palate. This is a Latour with fabulous tone and vigor. Best after 2018. 12,500 cases made.IWC 98 (6/2008): Deep ruby-red. Reticent, brooding aromas of cassis, black plum, graphite and flowers. Then utterly explosive in the mouth, with wonderful sappy complexity of flavor and a thickness of texture that builds and builds toward the back; almost no sign of the new oak here. Offers a near-magical combination of power and refinement, but this extremely primary wine is still an infant. Finishes with extraordinary persistence that leaves the palate vibrating. One of the greatest young Bordeaux I've tasted in recent years, and more complete and classic than the outrageously lush 2003. For his part, Engerer feels that this wine combines the best traits of the 2003 and 2000 Latours. I made the mistake of retasting the 2007 after trying this, and the tannins of the younger wine came off as dry by comparison.WA 96 (4/2008): Only 44% of the production made it into the dense ruby/purple-hued 2005 Latour, a powerful, backward, 12,000-case blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Petit Verdot and Merlot. As I wrote last year, this classic effort is built for the ages, and is largely destined to be drunk by our offspring rather than anyone over the age of 50 today. Complex aromas of crushed rocks, graphite, black cherries, creme de cassis, new saddle leather, and dried mushrooms are still tightly wound. The wine is full-bodied and powerful with exceptionally high tannin combined with zesty acidity, and laser-like focus. It will require 15 or more years of cellaring. I still prefer the 2003, but administrator Frederic Engerer says this “is more Latour.” Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour.aspWA 100 (2/1996): I would argue that the most exciting wines of the twentieth century are the 1947 Pomerols. Although the 1947s from Petrus and Lafleur (both perfect wines) were not included in the Rodenstock tasting, the wines tasted exemplify the number of exhilarating, decadent, and sumptuous wines produced by this tiny appellation. I have been blessed to have tasted the 1947 Latour a Pomerol several times. Several times I have rated it a perfect 100. It is a slightly older clone of the candidate for the wine of the century - the 1961 Latour a Pomerol. The 1947 exhibited an extraordinary opaque purple color with only some lightening at the edge. This exotic, mammoth, seductive, awesomely concentrated wine goes on and on in the mouth. It is reminiscent of a cross between the 1947 Cheval Blanc and the 1947 Petrus. Sweet, dense, and mind-boggling, what else can be said about something so perfect and thrilling. Akin to eating candy, it should drink well for another 20 years. The notes for this wine are taken from the description of Series III - Flight A of the 1995 tasting conducted in Munich by Helga and Hardy Rodenstock. Many years after the tasting from which this note derives allegations were made concerning the authenticity of old and rare bottles of wine sold by Hardy Rodenstock to collectors around the world. The matter has been the subject of numerous articles, litigation and at least one book. Mr. Parker believes that the wines served to him at this tasting were authentic so this note and the others from that specific tasting continue to be posted on eRobertParker.com.MB **** (3/2001): Very deep, opaque core; bouquet like rich tea; sweet, excellent flavour, extract, tannin and acidity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour-a-Pomerol.aspWA 93 (6/2000): A mature dark plum color with considerable amber at the edge is followed by copious aromas of caramel, coffee, jammy cherry fruit, and sweet herbs. Fleshy, succulent, and low in acidity, this seductive, sweet, fat Pomerol has reached its peak of maturity, where it should remain for another 5-8 years. It is an impressively complex, delicious wine, although not a blockbuster.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLatour-a-Pomerol.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LePetitCheval.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LePetitCheval.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LePetitCheval.aspWA 90 (2/1997): It is no secret that Anthony Barton's efforts over the last decade at his St.-Julien estate, Leoville-Barton, is resulting in terrific wines at still reasonable prices. This estate has been extremely successful in recent vintages. An impressive, serious, classic Bordeaux for collectors who are willing to forget about it for at least a decade, this well-endowed offering is a 30-year wine. The dense, murky, purple color, closed aromatics, massive flavor richness, and high tannin recall the old, non-compromised, beefy, blockbuster Medocs produced thirty years ago. However, this wine possesses sweeter tannin, and was made under far more sanitary conditions. It is a classic, but patience is definitely required. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWA 96 (4/2003): Absolutely spectacular from bottle, but frightfully closed and backward, with massive power and structure, the saturated purple-colored 2000 Leoville Barton is one of the greatest wines ever made at this estate. The wine has smoky, earthy notes intermixed with graphite, camphor, damp earth, jammy cassis, cedar, and a hint of mushroom. Enormous, even monstrous in the mouth, with tremendous extraction, broodingly backward, dense flavors, and copious tannins, this should prove to be one of the longest-lived wines of the vintage and one of the most compelling Leoville Bartons ever made. However, anyone unable to defer gratification for at least a decade should steer clear of this behemoth. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWA 96 (4/2003): Absolutely spectacular from bottle, but frightfully closed and backward, with massive power and structure, the saturated purple-colored 2000 Leoville Barton is one of the greatest wines ever made at this estate. The wine has smoky, earthy notes intermixed with graphite, camphor, damp earth, jammy cassis, cedar, and a hint of mushroom. Enormous, even monstrous in the mouth, with tremendous extraction, broodingly backward, dense flavors, and copious tannins, this should prove to be one of the longest-lived wines of the vintage and one of the most compelling Leoville Bartons ever made. However, anyone unable to defer gratification for at least a decade should steer clear of this behemoth. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWA 96 (4/2003): Absolutely spectacular from bottle, but frightfully closed and backward, with massive power and structure, the saturated purple-colored 2000 Leoville Barton is one of the greatest wines ever made at this estate. The wine has smoky, earthy notes intermixed with graphite, camphor, damp earth, jammy cassis, cedar, and a hint of mushroom. Enormous, even monstrous in the mouth, with tremendous extraction, broodingly backward, dense flavors, and copious tannins, this should prove to be one of the longest-lived wines of the vintage and one of the most compelling Leoville Bartons ever made. However, anyone unable to defer gratification for at least a decade should steer clear of this behemoth. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWA 95 (4/2006): One cannot admire enough proprietor Anthony Barton and his classic, potentially long-lived wines that are models of power, elegance, and longevity – in short, these wines symbolize what makes Bordeaux so world-renowned! Probably capable of rivaling the 2000, the uncompromisingly made, formidably powerful, masculine, and highly extracted 2003 has an inky purple color to the rim, a big, deep personality with a tight but promising nose of forest floor, creme de cassis, smoke, charcoal, licorice, and perhaps even truffle. It is layered, rich, and set for an exceptionally long life, but don’t expect to get a lot of joy even in this somewhat overtly styled vintage for at least another 7-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWA 95 (4/2006): One cannot admire enough proprietor Anthony Barton and his classic, potentially long-lived wines that are models of power, elegance, and longevity – in short, these wines symbolize what makes Bordeaux so world-renowned! Probably capable of rivaling the 2000, the uncompromisingly made, formidably powerful, masculine, and highly extracted 2003 has an inky purple color to the rim, a big, deep personality with a tight but promising nose of forest floor, creme de cassis, smoke, charcoal, licorice, and perhaps even truffle. It is layered, rich, and set for an exceptionally long life, but don’t expect to get a lot of joy even in this somewhat overtly styled vintage for at least another 7-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWS 94 (3/2009): There's a great dark color to this, with intense aromas of cedar, wood, new leather and crushed blackberry. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and a firm, powerful palate. Long and mouthpuckering. A muscular baby. Best after 2015. 18,750 cases made. IWC 91+ (6/2009): Good bright ruby-red. Pretty aromas of black cherry, cassis, tobacco leaf, minerals, licorice and violet. Chewy, rich and deep, with good dense mid-palate fruit and excellent concentration. Fuller and sweeter than the Langoa. Finishes long and delineated, with powerful tannic clout and terrific mineral thrust. A serious 2006 for the cellar.WA 91+ (2/2009): Not surprisingly, this wine is closed, masculine, but super-rich, with a denser, more complete and full-bodied style than its sibling, Langoa Barton. Some toasty vanillin is apparent in the black currant aromas intermixed with tobacco leaf, cedar, and spice box. The wine is full-bodied and has a boatload of tannin, not unusual for this estate, as well as an impressively pure, long finish. Everything is here, but this wine, made with uncompromising vision, is meant to be cellared for an exceptionally long period of time. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWA 95 (4/2006): One cannot admire enough proprietor Anthony Barton and his classic, potentially long-lived wines that are models of power, elegance, and longevity – in short, these wines symbolize what makes Bordeaux so world-renowned! Probably capable of rivaling the 2000, the uncompromisingly made, formidably powerful, masculine, and highly extracted 2003 has an inky purple color to the rim, a big, deep personality with a tight but promising nose of forest floor, creme de cassis, smoke, charcoal, licorice, and perhaps even truffle. It is layered, rich, and set for an exceptionally long life, but don’t expect to get a lot of joy even in this somewhat overtly styled vintage for at least another 7-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleBarton.aspWA 100 (6/2000): Tasted three times over a two month period, this youthful yet profoundly complex wine gets my nod as the finest Leoville-Las-Cases ever made. It reveals massive proportions yet extraordinary purity, elegance, and balance. This dense ruby/purple-colored 1982 still looks and tastes as if it were 5-8 years old. The nose offers up blazingly well-delineated, pure aromas of creme de cassis, cherry jam, minerals, and toasty new oak. This unctuously-textured, gorgeously rich, pure, super-concentrated, low acid effort concludes with a 45+ second finish. There is still tannin to shed in this unbelievably fresh, lively, full-bodied, vibrant wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2035.WS 95 (11/1998): A racy, classy, silky wine. Inky-ruby color. Black cherry, mineral and wet earth aromas. Medium-bodied, with very silky tannins and a long, superfine finish. Has always been excellent.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Best after 2000.IWC 95 (8/2002): Full medium ruby. Aromas of currant, black cherry, licorice, minerals and flowers. Thick, sweet and deep; still young but in a gentler, lower-acid style than either the '86 or '96. Still, this boasts sneaky intensity and wonderful persistence. Tannins are substantial but thoroughly ripe. Drink 2004 through 2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWA 92 (10/1995): This tasting consisted of each of the varietal components of Las Cases, followed by the final blend for Leoville-Las Cases. The weedy 1988 Merlot reveals a light ruby color with some lightening at the edge. Aromas of herbal tea clash with sweet fruit in this medium-bodied, high acid wine. The elegant Cabernet Franc is outstanding. It offers a medium dark ruby color, followed by a super-intense, penetrating fragrance of minerals, blackcurrants, spice, and a subtle mint note, as well as finesse. This was an impressive showing for a varietal component. The tough, backward Cabernet Sauvignon is tannic and closed, revealing muscle and strength. Tasted alone, it is nothing more than a building block for the final wine. The disappointing Petit Verdot possesses a vegetal character, astringent, harsh tannin, hollowness, and a lack of fruit and charm. Remarkably, the 1988 Leoville-Las Cases has always been one of the most successful wines of the vintage. In this tasting it clearly outshone all its component parts. With a rich, spicy, fruitcake, cedary, cassis-scented nose, this medium-bodied, moderately tannic Las Cases offers attractive sweetness and suppleness on the palate, a well-delineated and focused personality, and a moderately tannic finish. The wine is just beginning to reveal some aromatic development. It will benefit from another 2-5 years of cellaring and will keep for 20+ years.WS 90 (5/1999): Very fresh aromas of dried cherries, blackberries and wet earth. Full-bodied, with extremely well-integrated, silky tannins and a fresh blackberry and mint aftertaste. Slightly dry and funky on the finish. Try it a bit later. A Las Cases that's rather rustic.--1989 Bordeaux horizontal. Best after 2003.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWA 96 (2/1997): My notes on the 1989 and 1990 wines have been consistent over the last three years. The 1989 continues to lose ground, although it is obviously an outstanding wine, while the 1990 continues to escalate in quality. The 1990 continues to put on weight and richness, and it now clearly appears to be the superior vintage for Leoville-Las-Cases. The 1990 reveals a dense, dark purple color, followed by a sweet, pure nose of black fruits, minerals, lead pencil, and vanillin. Broad, expansive flavors come across as rich, pure, and concentrated, but never heavy or coarse. Beautifully integrated tannin and acidity are barely noticeable in this classic, full-bodied, velvety-textured, youthful yet exceptional St.-Julien. The 1990 is more fun to taste than the 1989, but readers should not interpret that comment to suggest it is ready to drink. This wine needs another 5-6 years of cellaring, after which it should last for 20-25 years.WS 93 (8/2000) Beautifully crafted red. Gorgeous plum, berry and smoky oak character. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, long, ripe fruit finish. A joy to taste.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWA 89-90 (10/1995): This tasting consisted of each of the varietal components of Las Cases, followed by the final blend for Leoville-Las Cases. The final wine is measurably better than any of its components. The soft Merlot exhibits a smoky, vegetal note, medium body, and a round, straightforward finish. The Cabernet Franc displays aromatic complexity, elegance, and good ripeness, as well as a tart style. The medium-bodied, closed, structured, firm Cabernet Sauvignon reveals bitterness and hardness in the finish. Although good, it is not special. The opaque-colored Petit Verdot possesses a high tannin level, more concentration and intensity than the Cabernet Sauvignon, and an astringent finish.WS 84 (2/1996): Slightly disappointing at this juncture. Berry, vanilla and earth character, medium body, soft tannins and light finish. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWA 89-90 (10/1995): This tasting consisted of each of the varietal components of Las Cases, followed by the final blend for Leoville-Las Cases. The final wine is measurably better than any of its components. The soft Merlot exhibits a smoky, vegetal note, medium body, and a round, straightforward finish. The Cabernet Franc displays aromatic complexity, elegance, and good ripeness, as well as a tart style. The medium-bodied, closed, structured, firm Cabernet Sauvignon reveals bitterness and hardness in the finish. Although good, it is not special. The opaque-colored Petit Verdot possesses a high tannin level, more concentration and intensity than the Cabernet Sauvignon, and an astringent finish.WS 84 (2/1996): Slightly disappointing at this juncture. Berry, vanilla and earth character, medium body, soft tannins and light finish. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWA 98 (4/1999): Having previously rated it nearly perfect, I was apprehensive of a letdown about tasting the 1996 Leoville Las Cases once it had been bottled, but that concern was quickly dismissed once I put my nose in the glass. A profound Leoville Las Cases, it is one of the great modern day wines of Bordeaux. This wine's hallmark remains a sur-maturite (over-ripeness) of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Yet the wine has retained its intrinsic classicism, symmetry, and profound potential for complexity and elegance. The black/purple color is followed by a spectacular nose of cassis, cherry liqueur, pain grille, and minerals. It is powerful and rich on the attack, with beautifully integrated tannin, massive concentration, yet no hint of heaviness or disjointedness. As this wine sits in the glass it grows in stature and richness. It is a remarkable, seamless, palate-staining, and extraordinarily elegant wine - the quintessential St.-Julien. Despite the sweetness of the tannin, I would recommend cellaring this wine for 7-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035.IWC 96 (8/2002): Saturated bright, dark ruby. Perfumed, vibrant, very youthful aromas of cassis, violet and bitter chocolate. Dense and powerful, with great clarity of flavor thanks to a terrific spine of acidity. Almost painfully structured wine but not at all hard. Finishes very long and gripping, with a note of bitter chocolate. Drink 2012 through 2040.WS 92 (12/2007): Incredible nose of blackberry, mineral, cedar and currant. Full-bodied, with silky and refined tannins and a medium caressing finish. It's a beautiful wine that begs to be drunk now but will age and improve for a long time.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWA 98 (4/1999): Having previously rated it nearly perfect, I was apprehensive of a letdown about tasting the 1996 Leoville Las Cases once it had been bottled, but that concern was quickly dismissed once I put my nose in the glass. A profound Leoville Las Cases, it is one of the great modern day wines of Bordeaux. This wine's hallmark remains a sur-maturite (over-ripeness) of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Yet the wine has retained its intrinsic classicism, symmetry, and profound potential for complexity and elegance. The black/purple color is followed by a spectacular nose of cassis, cherry liqueur, pain grille, and minerals. It is powerful and rich on the attack, with beautifully integrated tannin, massive concentration, yet no hint of heaviness or disjointedness. As this wine sits in the glass it grows in stature and richness. It is a remarkable, seamless, palate-staining, and extraordinarily elegant wine - the quintessential St.-Julien. Despite the sweetness of the tannin, I would recommend cellaring this wine for 7-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035.IWC 96 (8/2002): Saturated bright, dark ruby. Perfumed, vibrant, very youthful aromas of cassis, violet and bitter chocolate. Dense and powerful, with great clarity of flavor thanks to a terrific spine of acidity. Almost painfully structured wine but not at all hard. Finishes very long and gripping, with a note of bitter chocolate. Drink 2012 through 2040.WS 92 (12/2007): Incredible nose of blackberry, mineral, cedar and currant. Full-bodied, with silky and refined tannins and a medium caressing finish. It's a beautiful wine that begs to be drunk now but will age and improve for a long time.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWS 100 (3/2008): This is breathtaking. Black in color, with incredible aromas of crushed blackberry, mineral, licorice and lead pencil. Full-bodied, with a mind-blowing texture of seamless tannins that coat every millimeter of the palate. Goes on and on, with licorice, currant and flowers. Time will tell if it's better than the 2000. Best after 2017. 20,000 cases made.WA 98 (4/2008): Another titanic effort from the Delon family, the 2005 Leoville Las Cases is probably the greatest wine made at this estate since Jean-Hubert Delon’s father produced the 1986 and 1996. Only 37% of the production made it into the 2005, a blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with less than 13% Merlot and Cabernet Franc. An inky/ruby/purple color is accompanied by reticent aromatics that, with considerable coaxing, offer up subtle notes of toasty vanillin intermixed with lead pencil shavings, wet rocks, and enormously ripe, intense black cherry and creme de cassis. The wine hits the palate with a full-bodied, layered mouthfeel as well as enormous extract, concentration, and purity. This ageless, monumental claret requires a minimum of 15-20 years to approach maturity, and should last for a half century. It is about as classic a Leoville Las Cases as one will find. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060IWC 95+ (6/2008): Saturated ruby-red. A confiture of dark berries on the nose, with a complicating torrefaction note of coffee. Fat, sweet, plump and full, with a silky, enveloping texture rare for this wine in its youth. The highly concentrated cassis, violet and bitter chocolate flavors really take over the mouth and stay awhile. The huge, chocolatey finish features big, ripe, building tannins. One can easily taste this massive wine today, but there are great reserves here to ensure a long and slow evolution in bottle-and I would not be at all surprised if it shut down soon for a very long time. Our cabernet sauvignon was perfectly ripe in both '05 and '06, noted cellarmaster Rolland.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWS 100 (3/2008): This is breathtaking. Black in color, with incredible aromas of crushed blackberry, mineral, licorice and lead pencil. Full-bodied, with a mind-blowing texture of seamless tannins that coat every millimeter of the palate. Goes on and on, with licorice, currant and flowers. Time will tell if it's better than the 2000. Best after 2017. 20,000 cases made.WA 98 (4/2008): Another titanic effort from the Delon family, the 2005 Leoville Las Cases is probably the greatest wine made at this estate since Jean-Hubert Delon’s father produced the 1986 and 1996. Only 37% of the production made it into the 2005, a blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with less than 13% Merlot and Cabernet Franc. An inky/ruby/purple color is accompanied by reticent aromatics that, with considerable coaxing, offer up subtle notes of toasty vanillin intermixed with lead pencil shavings, wet rocks, and enormously ripe, intense black cherry and creme de cassis. The wine hits the palate with a full-bodied, layered mouthfeel as well as enormous extract, concentration, and purity. This ageless, monumental claret requires a minimum of 15-20 years to approach maturity, and should last for a half century. It is about as classic a Leoville Las Cases as one will find. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060IWC 95+ (6/2008): Saturated ruby-red. A confiture of dark berries on the nose, with a complicating torrefaction note of coffee. Fat, sweet, plump and full, with a silky, enveloping texture rare for this wine in its youth. The highly concentrated cassis, violet and bitter chocolate flavors really take over the mouth and stay awhile. The huge, chocolatey finish features big, ripe, building tannins. One can easily taste this massive wine today, but there are great reserves here to ensure a long and slow evolution in bottle-and I would not be at all surprised if it shut down soon for a very long time. Our cabernet sauvignon was perfectly ripe in both '05 and '06, noted cellarmaster Rolland.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovilleLasCases.aspWA 75 (6/1983): Very soft, flabby, almost soupy, fruity flavors show good ripeness, but little structure, grip, or balance. A sweet, simple, fruity wine that can be quaffed easily, but it does not deliver ``classified growth'' breed or character. Drink up. Anticipated maturity: Now-probably in serious decline.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWA 90 (3/1997): This is a beautifully made wine, and certainly one of the two finest made at this estate during the eighties. The color is a healthy dark ruby/purple. A classic nose of overripe black currants, plums, and sweet vanillin is followed by a wine with considerable opulence, and a seductive, fleshy mouthfeel. The wine's low acidity and gorgeously pure, rich fruit with copious quantities of glycerin make for a beautiful tasting experience. Although the 1983 has reached full maturity, it exhibits no signs of drying out. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWA 90 (3/1997): This is a beautifully made wine, and certainly one of the two finest made at this estate during the eighties. The color is a healthy dark ruby/purple. A classic nose of overripe black currants, plums, and sweet vanillin is followed by a wine with considerable opulence, and a seductive, fleshy mouthfeel. The wine's low acidity and gorgeously pure, rich fruit with copious quantities of glycerin make for a beautiful tasting experience. Although the 1983 has reached full maturity, it exhibits no signs of drying out. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWS 92 (4/1988): Firm, lean and structured with rich, ripe concentrated cassis, currant and plum fruit that's polished and full-bodied, finishing with vanilla and plum. The tannins are in proportion, finishing firm and dry.WA 85 (4/1990): The 1985 Leoville-Poyferre has good color, a soft, round, fruity, medium-bodied feel on the palate, a toasty, new oaky bouquet, ripe, melted tannins, and a moderately long finish. Anticipated maturity: Now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWA 87 (2/1997): Leoville-Poyferre is making greater and greater efforts to push the quality level closer to that of its neighbor, Leoville-Las-Cases. The hiring of the famed oenologist, Michel Rolland, the beginning of malolactic fermentation in barrel (started in 1994), a stricter selection process, and the construction of a superb new cuverie are all signs that Leoville-Poyferre is set to emerge as one of the stars of the northern Medoc. Dark ruby/purple-colored, with sweet, perfumed, blackcurrant fruit, this wine offers a round, supple entry on the palate, medium body, ripe fruit, not a great deal of power or volume, but fine purity, some intriguing chocolate and smoky notes, and a velvety-textured, lush finish. A high percentage of Merlot was used in the final blend, a fact confirmed by this tasty, elegant wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWA 89 (4/2002): A perfumed bouquet of flowers, jammy cassis, sweet oak, and truffles jumps from the glass of this ripe, classic, mid-weight claret. The wine is elegant rather than powerful. It possesses intense fruit, admirable ripeness as well as balance, and a long finish. Enjoy this beautiful, sexy Poyferre over the next 12-14 years.IWC 88 (6/2002): Medium-deep red. Redcurrant, cedar and minerals on the nose, along with a cool minty aspect. Then sweet and supple in the mouth, with good flavor intensity and thrust but moderate nuance. Can't match the 2000 or 2001 for volume but finishes with ripe tannins and good length. WS 87 (3/2002): Delicious red. Plenty of plum and blackberry character on the nose. Medium-bodied, with light silky tannins and a delicate, fruity finish. Best after 2003. 20,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWA 95 (4/2003): Wow, this wine has really come on strong. A brilliant effort, it boasts an opaque purple color in addition to a gorgeously sweet nose (make that explosive nose) of blackberries and creme de cassis intermixed with minerals, smoke, and earth. The 2000 is opulent, full-bodied, and much more accessible than either of its two Leoville siblings, Leoville Las Cases or Leoville Barton, with low acidity, sweet tannin, and a layered, sumptuous finish. It continues to improve dramatically and looks to be a great success, rivaling the brilliant 1996 and 1990. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2030.WS 94 (3/2003): Superb. Vivid, with lovely aromas of berries, minerals, toasted oak and leather. Full-bodied, with extremely well-integrated tannins and a long finish. A wine to remember. Best ever from this estate. Best after 2010. 20,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWA 95 (4/2003): Wow, this wine has really come on strong. A brilliant effort, it boasts an opaque purple color in addition to a gorgeously sweet nose (make that explosive nose) of blackberries and creme de cassis intermixed with minerals, smoke, and earth. The 2000 is opulent, full-bodied, and much more accessible than either of its two Leoville siblings, Leoville Las Cases or Leoville Barton, with low acidity, sweet tannin, and a layered, sumptuous finish. It continues to improve dramatically and looks to be a great success, rivaling the brilliant 1996 and 1990. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2030.WS 94 (3/2003): Superb. Vivid, with lovely aromas of berries, minerals, toasted oak and leather. Full-bodied, with extremely well-integrated tannins and a long finish. A wine to remember. Best ever from this estate. Best after 2010. 20,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.aspWA 93 (4/2008): Although I still prefer the 2003, the 2005 Leoville Poyferre is a gorgeously opulent, approachable wine that is far less massive and austere than its two siblings. The most seductive, approachable, and charming of the three Leovilles, it exhibits a dense purple color as well as a sweet bouquet of mocha, black chocolate, creme de cassis, licorice, and toasty oak. Full-bodied with gorgeous upfront fruit in addition to impressive levels of melted, well-integrated tannin, it should be at its finest between 2015-2035.IWC 93 (6/2008): Saturated ruby-red. Deeply pitched aromas of black cherry, currant and coffee. Sweet, silky and full, but with lovely ripe acidity to frame the dense black fruit, mocha and mineral flavors. Showing a glossy aspect to its fruit that is exhilarating, even if this deep, fairly tannic wine is a bit sullen at present, despite showing excellent back-end breadth. This is a full 13.5% alcohol; the petit verdot component reached 14.5% potential alcohol in 2005, said Cuvelier, who describes 2005 as "a year of sun but not surmaturite.WS 92 (3/2008): Dark ruby red in color, with aromas of currant, blackberry, toasty oak and light cappuccino. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a beautiful, caressing aftertaste. Touches every part of the palate. Outstanding, but slightly disappointing after such a great showing from barrel. Best after 2009. 18,915 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLeovillePoyferre.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLesCarmesHaut-Brion.aspWS 88 (12/2007): A tannic vintage, particularly for the Médoc; this is drinking surprisingly well. Shows aromas of ripe berries and mushroom, with hints of tobacco. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, rich finish.--Lynch-Bages non-blind vertical. Drink now.WA 86 (2/1996): After the number of disappointing tastings I have had of this wine, I was surprised that it showed reasonably well at the blind tasting in December. The color exhibits significant amber/orange at the edge, followed by a dusty, herbaceous, cedary nose with some ripe fruit. Full-bodied but slightly hollow, the wine exhibits more sweetness and expansiveness than I expected. This above average wine is beginning to reach full maturity. Given the number of washed-out, excessively tannic examples of 1975 Lynch-Bages I have tasted, I am now more optimistic about this wine. Drink it between 2000-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLynchBages.aspWS 88 (12/2007): A tannic vintage, particularly for the Médoc; this is drinking surprisingly well. Shows aromas of ripe berries and mushroom, with hints of tobacco. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, rich finish.--Lynch-Bages non-blind vertical. Drink now.WA 86 (2/1996): After the number of disappointing tastings I have had of this wine, I was surprised that it showed reasonably well at the blind tasting in December. The color exhibits significant amber/orange at the edge, followed by a dusty, herbaceous, cedary nose with some ripe fruit. Full-bodied but slightly hollow, the wine exhibits more sweetness and expansiveness than I expected. This above average wine is beginning to reach full maturity. Given the number of washed-out, excessively tannic examples of 1975 Lynch-Bages I have tasted, I am now more optimistic about this wine. Drink it between 2000-2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLynchBages.aspWA 91 (6/2000): This is a beautiful wine with an evolved personality and low acidity. The wine exhibits abundant quantities of earthy, smoke and tobacco-tinged, black currant fruit, rich, concentrated, medium to full-bodied flavors, and moderate tannin in the long finish. It is successful, but nowhere near full maturity. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020.IWC 89 (6/1998): Very good red-ruby color. Floral, nutty aromas of black cherry and iodine; as with the '96, one can smell the char of the barrels. Sweet and smooth on entry, then a bit tougher and less obviously ripe than the silkier, more voluminous '96, with a slight green streak and an impression of stronger acidity. The tannins here are a bit more spiky. Finishes with a note of pepper. In a typical, drier Pauillac style, a bit like the '88.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLynchBages.aspIWC 89 (6/2002): Dark red-ruby. Plum, redcurrant, cedar, cigar box and tobacco on the evolving nose. Pliant and sweet, with moderate depth and dimension. Can't match the later vintages for verve or inner-mouth complexity. Finishes with dusty tannins and good length.WA 90 (4/2002): This dense ruby/purple-colored 1999 is a modern day clone of this estate's wonderful 1962. The 1999 reveals forward, open-knit notes of creme de cassis and earth. It is fleshy, medium to full-bodied, and succulent, with supple tannin, excellent balance, as well as a long, pure, ripe finish. This seductive effort will drink well for 12-15 years, possibly longer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLynchBages.aspWS 91 (3/2005): Aromas of currant bush, berries and sweet tobacco follow through to a full-bodied palate, with medium tannins and a long finish. Lovely texture to this wine. Best after 2008. 35,000 cases made.WA 88 (4/2005): The 2002 has turned out lighter and more herbaceous than I would have guessed. This medium-bodied wine reveals a dark ruby/purple-tinged color, and hints of cedar wood and tobacco in an evolved aromatic display which also includes herbs and black currants. Attractive in a superficial way, there is some tannin, but also a softness and charm. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLynchBages.aspWA 97 (4/2008): This estate’s finest effort - ever, the 2005 Malescot St.-Exupery should be sought out by readers looking for intensity combined with superb richness, fascinating elegance, and a surreal concoction of blue and red fruits, a silky texture, and a delicate yet powerful wine that builds incrementally, never becoming overwrought. This dense purple-colored, medium to full-bodied tour de force in winemaking is already displaying remarkable complexity. It should only get better over the next decade, and will last through 2030. I would not be surprised to see this wine merit a few more points with additional aging._x000D__x000D__x000D_WS 97 (3/2008): Exhibits blackberry, mineral, currant and dark chocolate. Full and velvety, with lots of fruit and chewy tannins. Long and caressing, with incredibly sweet fruit and tannins on the finish. Goes on for minutes. A thoroughly gorgeous wine. Best after 2015. 6,615 cases made._x000D__x000D__x000D_IWC 93 (6/2008): Bright ruby-red. Superripe berry and chocolate aromas, with a whiff of surmaturite Fat, sweet and large-scaled, offering extraordinary volume and an almost syrupy thickness leavened by surprisingly sound acidity. This saturates the entire mouth yet manages to avoid coming off as heavy. Finishes very long and sweet, with thoroughly integrated tannins. "The best vintage since 1961," notes Jean-Luc Zuger. "This is the kind of wine I like." He advises early drinkers to give this 2005 about four hours in a decanter.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMalescotStExupery.aspMB ***** (12/2001): Despite its deep appearance, already ripe andlovely when first tasted in the early 1960s. Margaux's inimitable perfume and charm noted through the 1970s, no lack of acidity noted. Almost all warranting 5 stars in the 1980s, when it started to look less intense and show more maturity. In 1994, tasted alongside the '61 in Aschau, both were fullyl mature-looking with a touch of orange at the rim. On this occasion I found the '61 more fragrant and charming, though I think the '59 was not at its best; nor was it at Wagner's first Margaux vertical. However, at the second, a bottle recorked in 1986 was superb, one of my highest marks, ahead of the '61. By now a medium depth of colour; a lovely 'warm', rich, well-tempered, complete, harmonious bouquet; sweet, full, rich and rounded. However, looking back, of my 29 notes, about a half a dozen have been disappointing to poor, mainly due to less-than-good levels and poor corks.WS 93 (10/1990): Superbly balanced, with lovely, elegant fruit flavors. Quite succulent in style. Medium ruby-garnet, with an elegant, earthy strawberry aroma, balanced fruit and medium tannins.--1959 Bordeaux horizontal.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 93 (1/1998): This wine is just now reaching full maturity, much later than I initially expected. It is a classy, elegant example of Margauxpossessing a dark ruby/purple color, and a moderately intense nose of sweet black currant fruit intermixed with minerals, vanillin, and floral scents. The wine is medium-bodied, with beautifully sweet fruit. This linear, more compressed style of Margaux possesses a good inner-core of sweet fruit, and a charming, harmonious personality. Although not a blockbuster, it is aging effortlessly, and appears to take on more character with each passing year. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted 12/96http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspMB ***[*]: This was the wine of the vintage. Could it be just a coincidence that this was the much admired Paul Pontallier's first vintage at Margaux? I usually find Margaux exceptionally appealing in cask, its vivid purple, its fruit-driven aroma and dramatic taste. One takes for granted the accompanying tannins, one leaves inspired, but with blackened teeth! So it was with the '83 when I first tasted it twelve months after the harvest. On several occasions I have tasted it alongside the '82 and, at Lay & Wheeler's Margaux evening in 1990, judged the '82 to be better. However, on a more recent occasion, though both enormously impressive, I finally came down on the '83- it just had that extra touch of finesse. I have been fortunate enough to taste the wine on well over a dozen occasions over the last decade, three drinking superbly at our various Bordeaux Club dinners, but not showing at its best (dozens of bottles opened for the thousand or sao participants) at a Wine Experience tasting in New York in 1995. Later at highly educational vertical tastings, one of the earliest of those in 1995, with the Hollywood Wine Society, and on each occasion tasted in the same 'flight' asthe '82, the '83 tending to have a more glorious bouquet and crisper flavour. The total difference in style noted again at the two Wagner tasting in Zurich, the first in 1997. A double treat at the Chateau Margaux dinner at Brooks's in London (March 2000) for the wine and our one lady guest, Corinne Mentzelopoulos, who bowled over the elderly members: she is as witty as she is attractive. If I were to sum up the '83 Margaux, it would be as noted at John Jenkins' dinner (Oct 2000): a beautiful colour, medium deep and still youthful; the unbeatable Margaux fragrance soaring out of the glass; sweet, soft and rich. It fills the mouth with flavour and seems to last forever.WS 98 (10/1994): Wine of the vintage. Massive, with exuberant aromas of cassis, lead pencil and fruit which follow through on the palate. Full-bodied and incredibly velvety. Long, long finish. Try after 1998.WA 96 (9/1997): The 1983 Margaux is a breathtaking wine. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes achieved perfect maturity in 1983, and the result is an astonishingly rich, concentrated, atypically powerful and tannic Margaux. The color is dark ruby, the aromas exude ripe cassis fruit, violets, and vanillin oakiness, and the flavors are extremely deep and long on the palate with a clean, incredibly long finish. This full-bodied, powerful wine remains stubbornly backward and at least 5-6 years away from maturity. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2030.IWC 95 (8/2002): Deep ruby-red. Exotic aromas of cassis, meat and smoke, plus a whiff of funky wood. Then remarkably sweet, lush and suave, with a flavor of raw berries. Pure Margaux silkiness allied to firm structure. Finishes very long, with rich, sweet tannins. Remarkable wine, particularly considering that the bottle was not perfect. Pristine bottles of this wine are just now embarking on their period of peak drinkability, which should last another 20 years or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspMB ***[*]: This was the wine of the vintage. Could it be just a coincidence that this was the much admired Paul Pontallier's first vintage at Margaux? I usually find Margaux exceptionally appealing in cask, its vivid purple, its fruit-driven aroma and dramatic taste. One takes for granted the accompanying tannins, one leaves inspired, but with blackened teeth! So it was with the '83 when I first tasted it twelve months after the harvest. On several occasions I have tasted it alongside the '82 and, at Lay & Wheeler's Margaux evening in 1990, judged the '82 to be better. However, on a more recent occasion, though both enormously impressive, I finally came down on the '83- it just had that extra touch of finesse. I have been fortunate enough to taste the wine on well over a dozen occasions over the last decade, three drinking superbly at our various Bordeaux Club dinners, but not showing at its best (dozens of bottles opened for the thousand or sao participants) at a Wine Experience tasting in New York in 1995. Later at highly educational vertical tastings, one of the earliest of those in 1995, with the Hollywood Wine Society, and on each occasion tasted in the same 'flight' asthe '82, the '83 tending to have a more glorious bouquet and crisper flavour. The total difference in style noted again at the two Wagner tasting in Zurich, the first in 1997. A double treat at the Chateau Margaux dinner at Brooks's in London (March 2000) for the wine and our one lady guest, Corinne Mentzelopoulos, who bowled over the elderly members: she is as witty as she is attractive. If I were to sum up the '83 Margaux, it would be as noted at John Jenkins' dinner (Oct 2000): a beautiful colour, medium deep and still youthful; the unbeatable Margaux fragrance soaring out of the glass; sweet, soft and rich. It fills the mouth with flavour and seems to last forever.WS 98 (10/1994): Wine of the vintage. Massive, with exuberant aromas of cassis, lead pencil and fruit which follow through on the palate. Full-bodied and incredibly velvety. Long, long finish. Try after 1998.WA 96 (9/1997): The 1983 Margaux is a breathtaking wine. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes achieved perfect maturity in 1983, and the result is an astonishingly rich, concentrated, atypically powerful and tannic Margaux. The color is dark ruby, the aromas exude ripe cassis fruit, violets, and vanillin oakiness, and the flavors are extremely deep and long on the palate with a clean, incredibly long finish. This full-bodied, powerful wine remains stubbornly backward and at least 5-6 years away from maturity. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2030.IWC 95 (8/2002): Deep ruby-red. Exotic aromas of cassis, meat and smoke, plus a whiff of funky wood. Then remarkably sweet, lush and suave, with a flavor of raw berries. Pure Margaux silkiness allied to firm structure. Finishes very long, with rich, sweet tannins. Remarkable wine, particularly considering that the bottle was not perfect. Pristine bottles of this wine are just now embarking on their period of peak drinkability, which should last another 20 years or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 96 (12/1996): The 1986 Margaux continues to be the most powerful, tannic, and muscular Margaux made in decades. One wonders if the 1928 or 1945 had as much power and depth as the 1986? The black/ruby/purple color reveals no sign of age. The reluctant nose offers up aromas of smoky, toasty new oak and black currants, as well as a few flowers. The wine is mammoth, with extraordinary extract, superb balance, and a frightfully tannic finish. This is a Margaux of immense stature, made in a masculine, full-bodied style that is in complete contrast to the 1990. It should prove nearly immortal in terms of aging potential, but will it have the awesome potential I first predicted? Anticipated maturity: 2000-2050.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 89 (2/1997): Since 1978 there have been only two first-growths (or two of the so-called "big eight" of Bordeaux) that have been consistently excellent to superb - Chateau Haut-Brion and Chateau Margaux. Margaux's admirable consistency is well-displayed in the 1993-95 wines. An excellent dark ruby/purple color accompanies a soft, smoky, blackcurrant-scented wine. Although round, generous, sexy, and alluring, the 1993 does not possess enough length to justify an outstanding score, but I would not be surprised to see that develop with another 2-3 years of bottle age. It is a beautifully made, elegant, rich style of Margaux that can be drunk now, or cellared for 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 92 (2/1997): Since 1978 there have been only two first-growths (or two of the so-called "big eight" of Bordeaux) that have been consistently excellent to superb - Chateau Haut-Brion and Chateau Margaux. Margaux's admirable consistency is well-displayed in the 1993-95 wines. Chateau Margaux was one of the last estates to bottle their 1994 (September, 1996), hoping to soften the vintage's high, hard tannin level. The wine has turned out to be a classic, long-lived Margaux. The opaque purple color is followed by this estate's tell-tale aromas of flowers, blackcurrants, licorice, and smoky oak. This dense, powerful, closed wine is a true vin de gard. It needs a decade of cellaring, but it should last for 25-35 years. Readers may find this wine reminiscent of the 1988, only riper and more powerful. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 92 (2/1997): Since 1978 there have been only two first-growths (or two of the so-called "big eight" of Bordeaux) that have been consistently excellent to superb - Chateau Haut-Brion and Chateau Margaux. Margaux's admirable consistency is well-displayed in the 1993-95 wines. Chateau Margaux was one of the last estates to bottle their 1994 (September, 1996), hoping to soften the vintage's high, hard tannin level. The wine has turned out to be a classic, long-lived Margaux. The opaque purple color is followed by this estate's tell-tale aromas of flowers, blackcurrants, licorice, and smoky oak. This dense, powerful, closed wine is a true vin de gard. It needs a decade of cellaring, but it should last for 25-35 years. Readers may find this wine reminiscent of the 1988, only riper and more powerful. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 95 (2/1998): Bottled very late (November, 1997), the 1995 has continued to flesh out, developing into one of the great classics made under the Mentzelopoulos regime. The color is opaque ruby/purple. The nose offers aromas of licorice and sweet smoky new oak intermixed with jammy black fruits, licorice, and minerals. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with extraordinary richness, fabulous equilibrium, and hefty tannin in the finish. In spite of its large size and youthfulness, this wine is user-friendly and accessible. This is a thrilling Margaux that will always be softer and more evolved than its broader-shouldered sibling, the 1996. How fascinating it will be to follow the evolution of both of these vintages over the next half century. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2040.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 100 (4/2003): Bottled in late November, 2002, the 2000 has turned out to be a colossal example of Chateau Margaux that is tasting even better from bottle than it was from cask. Only 40% of the crop made it into this 2000 Margaux, a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. Stylistically, it is somewhat of a hybrid between the succulent, opulent, fleshy 1990, and the more delineated, structured, cooler climate-tasting 1996. The 2000 possesses a saturated ruby/purple color to the rim as well as an extraordinarily promising nose of creme de cassis intermixed with white flowers, licorice, and hints of espresso and toasty oak. There is great intensity, compelling purity, a multi-layered, full-bodied palate, and a finish that goes on for nearly 70+ seconds. Bottled naturally, with no filtration, it is a monumental example of the elegance and power that symbolize this extraordinary vineyard. A tour de force in winemaking, many of my colleagues predicted, far earlier than me, that it would be the "wine of the vintage." It is certainly one of the wines of the vintage, but there is plenty of competition, even at this lofty level of quality. Absolutely awesome! Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050.WS 100 (7/2003): Muscular yet classy. Breathtaking aromas of black licorice, violets, berry and cherry, with light hints of spices and minerals. It's all there in the nose. Full-bodied, with an ultrafine tannin structure and a finish that goes on for minutes. This may turn out even better than 1995 due to its layers and layers of fine tannins and fruit but I can't give more than 100 points. Best after 2015. IWC 98 (6/2003): Full ruby-red. Penetrating, highly perfumed aromas of sappy dark berries, violet and minerals; seems less oaky today than the '01. Offers compelling mouthfilling concentration and perfume. A wine of great power and consistency, with a pungent minerality lingering on the palate-staining finish. This somehow doesn't flag or grow narrower even after one swallows or spits. Makes the 2002 seem almost dry in comparison. Wine-of-the-vintage material.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 97 (2/2007): The consulting winemaker at Bodegas El Nido is Chris Ringland of Barossa Valley fame. The 2004 Clio is 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 70% Monastrell (from 63-year-old vines) which received malolactic fermentation in new oak followed by 26 months of aging in new French and American barriques. A glass-coating opaque purple, it exhibits a sensational nose of earth, mushroom, leather, blueberry, and blackberry jam. On the palate the wine is supple-textured, complex, with vibrant flavors of spicy blue and black fruits and a big-time WOW factor. This is a totally hedonistic effort with exceptional length and balance. It is remarkably light on its feet for such a powerful wine.IWC 93 (9/2007): (70% monastrell and 30% cabernet sauvignon) Ruby-red. Sharply focused raspberry, cassis and floral aromas are complicated by zesty minerals and a suave cocoa quality. Sweet red berry and cherry flavors are strikingly pure and deep, with fine-grained tannins adding shape and firmness. The mineral character repeats on the impressively long, juicy finish. There are plenty of $100 wines that can't match this. WS 92 (12/2008): Ripe, fresh fruit flavors of black cherry and boysenberry mingle with toast and sweet vanilla notes from oak in this modern red. Has well-integrated tannins and lively acidity, with a lip-smacking finish. Monastrell (Mourvèdre) and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2014. 1,125 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspIWC 94 (6/2007): Bright red-ruby. Knockout nose features boysenberry, currant, cedar, graphite and mocha. Suave, gentle and sweet, already displaying ineffable inner-mouth perfume. The 17% merlot component injects a silky component, and the oak element adds a complementary sweetness. Complex, lush, horizontal finish saturates the mouth with flavor. It was not clear to me in April that the 2006 would exceed this-and it will certainly take longer to reach full maturity in bottle.WA 93 (6/2007): The supple-textured 2004 Chateau Margaux is reminiscent of the 2001 or 1999. It exhibits a superb blue/purple color to the rim as well as sweet aromas of flowers, blueberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and smoke, superb fruit intensity, medium body, classic elegance, and silky, sweet tannin in the long finish. This beauty can be drunk now or cellared for two decades or more.WS 93 (3/2007): Subtle and complex aromas of crushed raspberry, milk chocolate and cigar box. Full-bodied, silky and refined, with layers of fruit and seductive tannins. Very long. A Margaux with finesse and reserve. Best after 2011. 12,500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspIWC 94 (6/2007): Bright red-ruby. Knockout nose features boysenberry, currant, cedar, graphite and mocha. Suave, gentle and sweet, already displaying ineffable inner-mouth perfume. The 17% merlot component injects a silky component, and the oak element adds a complementary sweetness. Complex, lush, horizontal finish saturates the mouth with flavor. It was not clear to me in April that the 2006 would exceed this-and it will certainly take longer to reach full maturity in bottle.WA 93 (6/2007): The supple-textured 2004 Chateau Margaux is reminiscent of the 2001 or 1999. It exhibits a superb blue/purple color to the rim as well as sweet aromas of flowers, blueberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and smoke, superb fruit intensity, medium body, classic elegance, and silky, sweet tannin in the long finish. This beauty can be drunk now or cellared for two decades or more.WS 93 (3/2007): Subtle and complex aromas of crushed raspberry, milk chocolate and cigar box. Full-bodied, silky and refined, with layers of fruit and seductive tannins. Very long. A Margaux with finesse and reserve. Best after 2011. 12,500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWS 100 (3/2008): Black in color, delivering extraordinary aromas of blackberry, raisin, spices and fresh mushroom. Full-bodied, with an amazing core of ripe fruit, yet ultrabalanced and finely textured. Touches every taste bud. This incredible young red spent two years in new wood, but you can't tell. It's all glorious fruit. A legendary wine. Best after 2017.WA 98+ (4/2008): Another celestial effort from Paul Pontallier and Corinne Mentzelopoulus, the 2005 Margaux, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, boasts a dense opaque blue/purple color as well as an extraordinary bouquet of spring flowers, blueberries, black raspberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and, despite its having spent two years in 100% new wood, only a subtle touch of toasty oak. Although full-bodied, the wine seems light on its feet because of the silky tannins as well as the great gravel terroir from which it comes. Beautiful purity, length, and nobility define this modern day classic. Is it better than the 2000, 1996, 1990, or some of the vintages from the decade of the eighties? Who knows, but it is unquestionably one of the all-time great wines made at Chateau Margaux. This estate has produced only exceptional wines over the last three decades. The seamlessness of the 2005 suggests it will perform well early, but it should last for a half century or more. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2050+.IWC 98+ (6/2008): Saturated red-ruby. Explosive aromas of plum, raspberry, bitter chocolate, coffee, almond paste and smoke; this smells voluptuous. Then extraordinarily opulent on the palate, with an almost marzipan-like ripeness. Coats every square millimeter of the mouth with a texture of liquid silk. The baby fat here is incredible, but there's a structure of steel and powerful minerality underneath. One of the longest samples I tasted in Bordeaux this spring, and a wine with uncanny finishing sweetness. This fabulous vintage of Margaux should evolve positively in bottle for three or four decades in a cold cellar.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWS 100 (3/2008): Black in color, delivering extraordinary aromas of blackberry, raisin, spices and fresh mushroom. Full-bodied, with an amazing core of ripe fruit, yet ultrabalanced and finely textured. Touches every taste bud. This incredible young red spent two years in new wood, but you can't tell. It's all glorious fruit. A legendary wine. Best after 2017.WA 98+ (4/2008): Another celestial effort from Paul Pontallier and Corinne Mentzelopoulus, the 2005 Margaux, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, boasts a dense opaque blue/purple color as well as an extraordinary bouquet of spring flowers, blueberries, black raspberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and, despite its having spent two years in 100% new wood, only a subtle touch of toasty oak. Although full-bodied, the wine seems light on its feet because of the silky tannins as well as the great gravel terroir from which it comes. Beautiful purity, length, and nobility define this modern day classic. Is it better than the 2000, 1996, 1990, or some of the vintages from the decade of the eighties? Who knows, but it is unquestionably one of the all-time great wines made at Chateau Margaux. This estate has produced only exceptional wines over the last three decades. The seamlessness of the 2005 suggests it will perform well early, but it should last for a half century or more. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2050+.IWC 98+ (6/2008): Saturated red-ruby. Explosive aromas of plum, raspberry, bitter chocolate, coffee, almond paste and smoke; this smells voluptuous. Then extraordinarily opulent on the palate, with an almost marzipan-like ripeness. Coats every square millimeter of the mouth with a texture of liquid silk. The baby fat here is incredible, but there's a structure of steel and powerful minerality underneath. One of the longest samples I tasted in Bordeaux this spring, and a wine with uncanny finishing sweetness. This fabulous vintage of Margaux should evolve positively in bottle for three or four decades in a cold cellar.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.aspWA 94 (5/2011): This is a stunning Chateau Margaux, made in a sexy, up-front, elegant style, with deep creme de cassis fruit intermixed with spring flowers, a solid inner core of richness and depth, but again, very sweet tannins as well as striking minerality and elegance. One of the most seductive Chateau Margauxs given its recent bottling, this blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and the rest tiny quantities of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot should drink beautifully for the next 25-30 years. Remarkably, a mere 36% of the entire production was selected for the 2008 Chateau Margaux.IWC 93+ (8/2011): Deep ruby. Complex nose melds blackberry, minerals, bitter chocolate, graphite and violet. Suave and deep on entry, then fresh and alive in the middle palate, with compelling sweetness and intensity to the black cherry, smoky mineral and tobacco flavors. The smooth finish is long, intense and irresistible. At once serious and sexy. WS 91 (4/2011): A tangy style, with lots of grilled herb, dried bay leaf and damson plum notes laced with extra roasted cedar and mesquite on the finish. Opens slowly, very slowly, to show more layers of flesh, mulled cherry and spice, with a lingering sanguine note developing on the finish. Needs patience. Best from 2013 through 2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMargaux.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMazeyres.aspMB **** (10/2000): Several notes. Not for the first time I noticed a whiff of excess volatile acidity creeping into the Woltner wines though it often served to enhance the flavour. Nevertheless, a very good magnum in 1999 dining with the David Rutherfords: not as austere as it can be, in fact a pleasing mellow nose, with a typical earthy/tobacco finish. More recently, a tarry, spicy-nosed, very 'gravelly' flavour and dry finish. At best **** but I am inclined to downgrade it.WS 91 (11/1991): A surprisingly rich, round, delicious wine from an overlooked vintage. Medium ruby, with a garnet edge, ripe, perfumed raspberry aromas, full-bodied, with raspberry and earth flavors, medium-full tannins and a rich, sweet finish. Drink now.--La Mission-Haut-Brion vertical.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWS 89 (11/1991): Rich and very lovely, with excellent fruit; can age. Medium-red color, black cherry and tobacco aromas, full-bodied, with rich cherry and tobacco flavors, full tannins and a slightly dry finish.--La Mission-Haut-Brion vertical.MB ** (6/1990): One of the best '67s starting off well with a deep, rich, earthy flavour. Touch of sourness - a sort of pasty acidic finish though well disguised by its relative richness. By the mid-1980s considerable colour loss. Good flavour though.WA 84 (1/1998): In the early seventies the 1967 La Mission-Haut-Brion was one of the top eight or ten wines of this vintage from the Medoc and Graves. It has begun to lose its fruit, and has a coarse, chewy texture with some tough tannins that seem to be taking over the personality of the wine. There is still some fruit, and the wine has appeal, but I would suggest drinking it up immediately. Anticipated maturity: Nowhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWS 90 (5/1993): Medium garnet; spicy vanilla nose, with cedar and cassis accents; very full-blown cassis flavor; very concentrated, generous and complex; has some volatile acidity, but it's not a flaw.MB ***[*]: Like Mouton, flawed: too acidic. It started with a bottle: opaque, highly concentrated, magnificent (April 1972) and continued to dazzle and impress but it was in 1978 that I noted a 'raw finish' with a question mark. In the next decade, seven notes made in a variety of circumstances all referring to what I put down as high volatile acidity. Most recently, still deep ruby; fruity but 'peppery' and acidic nose; dry, full, lively and lusty. Interesting but unbalanced.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 90 (8/1993): A strong effort from La Mission, the 1979 retains its healthy dark ruby/purple color. It offers a spicy, mineral, and cassis-scented bouquet, medium to full body, ripe, concentrated, muscular flavors, and a long finish. While drinking well, the complexity and huge, penetrating fragrance of a top Graves have yet to emerge. I would opt for drinking it over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 99 (6/2000): An extraordinary effort that gets better with each tasting, this dark, murky, garnet/purple-colored 1982 exhibits a fabulously complex nose of hot bricks, asphalt, black fruits, tar, roast beef, and truffles, colossal concentration, super-ripeness, an unctuous texture, and low acidity. While still exceptionally youthful, this wine is powerful, dense, large-scaled, and intense. It is evolving at a snail's pace, but should continue to improve for another 10-15 years, and last for another three decades. A candidate for perfection!IWC 95 (8/2002): Good full medium red. Exotic yet lively aromas of roasted plum, marzipan and grilled nuts. Wonderfully dense but sappy, with grip of steel. Finishes powerfully tannic and extremely long, still with a touch of youthful austerity. A very impressive showing. Drink 2005 to 2025. (My second bottle was equally impressive but came across as even more backward and dominated by its structure.)WS 94 (11/1998): Slightly rustic, but firm and youthful. Dark ruby color. Beautiful aromas of berries and stones, with a hint of black truffles. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, spicy-stony finish.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Best from 2000 through 2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 99 (6/2000): An extraordinary effort that gets better with each tasting, this dark, murky, garnet/purple-colored 1982 exhibits a fabulously complex nose of hot bricks, asphalt, black fruits, tar, roast beef, and truffles, colossal concentration, super-ripeness, an unctuous texture, and low acidity. While still exceptionally youthful, this wine is powerful, dense, large-scaled, and intense. It is evolving at a snail's pace, but should continue to improve for another 10-15 years, and last for another three decades. A candidate for perfection!IWC 95 (8/2002): Good full medium red. Exotic yet lively aromas of roasted plum, marzipan and grilled nuts. Wonderfully dense but sappy, with grip of steel. Finishes powerfully tannic and extremely long, still with a touch of youthful austerity. A very impressive showing. Drink 2005 to 2025. (My second bottle was equally impressive but came across as even more backward and dominated by its structure.)WS 94 (11/1998): Slightly rustic, but firm and youthful. Dark ruby color. Beautiful aromas of berries and stones, with a hint of black truffles. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, spicy-stony finish.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Best from 2000 through 2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 92 (1/1998): The 1985 is deliciously opulent, rich, and open knit. The color is a dark ruby/purple with some garnet at the edge. The wine offers a sweet, smoky, melted road tar, black currant-scented nose with toasty oak in the background. It has put on weight as it has evolved in the bottle, and appears to be better than ever, with copious quantities of lush, jammy black fruits intermixed with the smoky, roasted character so prevalent in this appellation. The low acidity and loosely-knit, medium to full-bodied, fleshy character make for delicious drinking. Anticipated maturity: Now-2006.WS 90 (10/1994): Perhaps not as powerful as expected but the pure flavors are impressive. Wonderful berry, raspberry and cherry character, full body and silky tannins. Drink now.--The Bordeaux 50.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 92 (1/1998): The 1985 is deliciously opulent, rich, and open knit. The color is a dark ruby/purple with some garnet at the edge. The wine offers a sweet, smoky, melted road tar, black currant-scented nose with toasty oak in the background. It has put on weight as it has evolved in the bottle, and appears to be better than ever, with copious quantities of lush, jammy black fruits intermixed with the smoky, roasted character so prevalent in this appellation. The low acidity and loosely-knit, medium to full-bodied, fleshy character make for delicious drinking. Anticipated maturity: Now-2006.WS 90 (10/1994): Perhaps not as powerful as expected but the pure flavors are impressive. Wonderful berry, raspberry and cherry character, full body and silky tannins. Drink now.--The Bordeaux 50.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 92 (1/1998): The 1985 is deliciously opulent, rich, and open knit. The color is a dark ruby/purple with some garnet at the edge. The wine offers a sweet, smoky, melted road tar, black currant-scented nose with toasty oak in the background. It has put on weight as it has evolved in the bottle, and appears to be better than ever, with copious quantities of lush, jammy black fruits intermixed with the smoky, roasted character so prevalent in this appellation. The low acidity and loosely-knit, medium to full-bodied, fleshy character make for delicious drinking. Anticipated maturity: Now-2006.WS 90 (10/1994): Perhaps not as powerful as expected but the pure flavors are impressive. Wonderful berry, raspberry and cherry character, full body and silky tannins. Drink now.--The Bordeaux 50.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspMB ***[*]: Several notes, but none recent. Undoubtedly a good '86, its glorious fruit suppressed by its tannins. All, I hope, will be revealed._x000D__x000D_WA 97 (11/1991): An extremely impressive, yet slightly hard wine; still closed, but could be as great as the 1952. Dark ruby in color and very aromatic, with a rich cherry aromas. Full-bodied, with full tannins and plenty of fruit, yet very closed and tight on the finish.Best from 1998 through 2000._x000D__x000D_WA 91 (1998) There is a distinctive earthiness to this weedy, medium-bodied La Mission-Haut-Brion that still has some tannin to shed. The wine displays a youthful dark ruby/purple color, and sweet cassis fruit in the reticent, still unevolved nose. There is admirable power in this wine that is driven more by its spice and structure than its sweetness of fruit. Still youthful, it should continue to develop and evolve for another decade. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2012. Last tasted 5/97http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 100 (11/1996): I am certainly not going to argue with anyone who believes La Mission-Haut-Brion's 1989 is every bit as profound as the 1989 Haut-Brion. It is a spectacular wine, and as it ages in the bottle, it is quickly becoming one of my all-time favorite La Mission-Haut-Brions, ranking alongside the 1982, 1975, 1961, 1959, and 1955. The 1989 boasts a dense, thick, purple color, followed by a sweet, roasted cassis, chocolatey-scented nose with whiffs of tobacco, tar, and minerals. The wine is extremely full-bodied, unctuously-textured, sweet, jammy, and rich. Although it is still a youthful, unformed wine, it is already delicious to drink. It should develop additional bottle bouquet by the turn of the century, after which it will drink well for 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 94 (2/1997): Surprisingly, the 1990 La Mission-Haut-Brion performed nearly as well as the 1989. Three of the tasters in the group of seven who participated in this blind tasting rated it higher than the 1989. I make this point because I think the 1990http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 94 (2/1997): Surprisingly, the 1990 La Mission-Haut-Brion performed nearly as well as the 1989. Three of the tasters in the group of seven who participated in this blind tasting rated it higher than the 1989. I make this point because I think the 1990http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 94 (2/1997): Surprisingly, the 1990 La Mission-Haut-Brion performed nearly as well as the 1989. Three of the tasters in the group of seven who participated in this blind tasting rated it higher than the 1989. I make this point because I think the 1990http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 91 (2/1997): This outstanding example of La Mission is surprisingly forward and velvety-textured. The dark purple color suggests high extraction. The fragrant, smoky, tobacco, leathery, roasted herb, and cassis-scented nose is a real turn on. Voluptuous, round, medium to full-bodied, and loaded with fruit, glycerin, complexity, and charm, this is a surprisingly open-knit (at least for now), intensely flavorful wine. Anticipated maturity: 1999-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 100 (4/2003): A superstar of this great vintage, the 2000 La Mission Haut-Brion is as profound as the 1989, 1982, and 1975. It is more structured and tannic than the 1989, more civilized and refined, but not as thick as the 1982, and sweeter as well as purer than the 1975. The 2000 is neither flamboyant nor accessible, but what upside potential it possesses! In time, one might have to return to the prodigious duo of 1959 and 1961 to find a La Mission with this much potential. While still tight from bottling, its inky purple color is accompanied by extravagantly sweet aromas of blackberries, blueberries, toast, scorched earth, coffee, asphalt, graphite, and smoke. Super-intense and unctuously-textured, with a sumptuous mid-palate and finish, this is an explosively rich, layered effort that possesses everything I could ever want from a terroir that has given me as much hedonistic and intellectual pleasure as any other wine in the world. It is an amazing achievement for administrator Jean-Bernard Delmas, his son, Jean-Phillipe, and the entire winemaking team. The phenomenal aftertaste goes on for over a minute. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2045.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 97 (4/2008): There are slightly more than 5,000 cases of the 2005 La Mission-Haut-Brion, a blend of 69% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and a touch of Cabernet Franc. While there is little difference between La Mission and Haut-Brion’s terroirs (their vineyards are only separated by a two-lane road), La Mission possesses more fat, texture, and intensity. An enormously endowed wine with huge tannin and structure, the 2005 offers a quintessential Graves bouquet of burning embers, charcoal, blackberries, truffles, black currants, and a meaty character. Reminiscent of the 1989, with more structure as well as a longer window of drinkability, the 2005 may be a modern day, improved version of a vintage such as 1955, which was well-endowed, very tannic, and took a long time to come around. While fabulously full-bodied and unctuous, the 2005 will not provide much charm in its youth. It needs 8-10 years of cellaring, and should age effortlessly for 30-40 years.WS 97 (3/2008): The Indian spices and blackberry on the nose are so enticing and inspiring, leading to a full-bodied palate, with very polished tannins that caress. Goes on and on as this builds on the palate, with a mineral and berry aftertaste. For long-term aging. Best after 2015. 5,665 cases made.JR 19++/20 (6/2008): Bright, deep crimson. Super-healthy looking. Briary autumn leaf like nose. Strongly aromatic. Very dry start but with wonderful spread of ripe, leafy fruit, plus a hint of ripe red berries, over the palate. Only medium body – it’s not alcohol but concentration that distinguishes this wine. Very dry finish and then an aftertaste that spreads out like a peacock’s tail. Great potential but it would be a shame to drink this for at least 8, preferably 10, years. Drink 2018-2040.IWC 94+ (6/2008): Deep ruby-red. Black raspberry and licorice on the nose. Dense and sweet but youthfully tight; a serious young wine with terrific verve and the acid/tannin backbone to support a long and glorious evolution in bottle. Very long on the back end, with mouth-saturating fruit and tannins. Like La Chapelle-and in direct contrast to Bahans and Haut-Brion-this is quite backward today, and almost certain to merit a higher rating in the future.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 95 (2/2009): One of the vintage's top wines is the 2006 La Mission-Haut-Brion. From bottle, it reminds me of the 1998, given its structure and backward style. Dense ruby/purple-colored, it possesses a boatload of tannin, but with coaxing, tobacco leaf, sweet black currant, burning ember, and blue fruit characteristics emerge. While thick and full-bodied, the tannins seem more elevated than I remember from barrel. It is going to be a beauty, but like many of the top 2006s, considerable patience is required. Only 55% of the production made it into the grand vin as Jean-Philippe Delmas made a severe selection. The final blend was 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the 2006 has one of the highest natural alcohols ever achieved at La Mission, averaging around 14.3%, which is astonishingly high for a Graves. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035.WS 95 (3/2009): Almost jammy, with vanilla bean and coffee undertones. Full-bodied and very powerful, with big, juicy tannins and a long finish. Very big and generous for the vintage, showing exceptional quality. Best after 2015. 6,000 cases made.IWC 92+ (8/2010): Bright red-ruby. Redcurrant, cherry, iron, brown spices and licorice on the nose. Begins lush, full and generous if not overly sweet, then tightens up with air, showing its rather powerful underlying structure. This sharply delineated wine will need a good seven or eight years in bottle to reveal itself.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMissionHautBrion.aspWA 97 (4/1999): An amazing wine, the 1996 La Mondotte (approximately 800 cases made from a 30-year old parcel of 100% Merlot planted on a hillside between Le Tertre-Roteboeuf and Canon La Gaffeliere) is a super-star. If readers cannot get excited by tasting the 1996, they should change beverages. It is amazing for both its appellation and the vintage, revealing a remarkable level of richness, profound concentration, and integrated tannin. The thick purple color suggests a wine of extraordinary extract and richness. This super-concentrated wine offers a spectacular nose of roasted coffee, licorice, blueberries, and black currants intermixed with smoky new oak. It possesses full body, a multidimensional, layered personality with extraordinary depth of fruit, a seamless texture, amazing viscosity, and a long, 45-second finish. The tannin is sweet and well-integrated. This blockbuster St.-Emilion should be at its best between 2006-2025. A dry, vintage port Fonseca!_x000D__x000D_IWC 91+ (6/1999): Black ruby. Slightly high-toned aromas of raspberry, minerals and toffee. Extroverted, sweet and powerful in the mouth, with superb density for the vintage. Finishes with huge but well-distributed tannins. This is 100% merlot, while the '97 and '98 include 20%-25% cabernet franc; von Neipperg says he picked the cab franc too early in '96 and found it too rustic to include in the blend.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMondotte.aspWA 98 (4/2003): From a 11.3-acre vineyard cropped at 25 hectoliters per hectare, this blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc is a candidate for perfection. The 2000 La Mondotte has a saturated, inky purple color to the rim and a tight but enormously promising nose of blackberry and cassis liqueur intermixed with cherry, vanilla, espresso, mocha, and a hint of acacia flower. This unfined and unfiltered wine is enormously rich, with great intensity, fabulous purity, a layered texture, and a viscous, full-bodied finish that goes on for nearly one minute. In spite of its size, the wine has remarkable finesse and delineation. This is another tour de force in winemaking from proprietor Stephan von Neipperg and winemaking consultant Stephane Derenoncourt. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChLaMondotte.aspMB ***[**] (2/1992): A serious combination, Montrose and the 1982 vintage. And so it proved to be. Although not tasted recently, harmonious, excellent flavour but its ripe sweetness hardly denting its tannic astringency. A long haul wine.WS 96 (12/2006): Intense aromas of kirsch, currant and spice follow through to a full-bodied palate, with round, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. This is complex, changing on the nose and palate. Layered and structured. Will improve for many years to come.--Non-blind Château Montrose vertical. Drink now.WA 92 (6/2009): The 1982 is nowhere near the quality of some of the Montroses made afterwards (1989, 1990, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2008), but it has aged better than expected having developed more complexity and richness than barrel samples suggested. Sweet kirsch, black currant, crushed rock, and floral notes are followed by a full-bodied, opulent, fleshy wine displaying no hard edges. It still possesses beautifully pure fruit as well as good body, but it should be consumed over the next 5-8 years. Release price: ($120.00/case)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspMB ***[**] (2/1992): A serious combination, Montrose and the 1982 vintage. And so it proved to be. Although not tasted recently, harmonious, excellent flavour but its ripe sweetness hardly denting its tannic astringency. A long haul wine.WS 96 (12/2006): Intense aromas of kirsch, currant and spice follow through to a full-bodied palate, with round, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. This is complex, changing on the nose and palate. Layered and structured. Will improve for many years to come.--Non-blind Château Montrose vertical. Drink now.WA 92 (6/2009): The 1982 is nowhere near the quality of some of the Montroses made afterwards (1989, 1990, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2008), but it has aged better than expected having developed more complexity and richness than barrel samples suggested. Sweet kirsch, black currant, crushed rock, and floral notes are followed by a full-bodied, opulent, fleshy wine displaying no hard edges. It still possesses beautifully pure fruit as well as good body, but it should be consumed over the next 5-8 years. Release price: ($120.00/case)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspMB ***[**] (2/1992): A serious combination, Montrose and the 1982 vintage. And so it proved to be. Although not tasted recently, harmonious, excellent flavour but its ripe sweetness hardly denting its tannic astringency. A long haul wine.WS 96 (12/2006): Intense aromas of kirsch, currant and spice follow through to a full-bodied palate, with round, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. This is complex, changing on the nose and palate. Layered and structured. Will improve for many years to come.--Non-blind Château Montrose vertical. Drink now.WA 92 (6/2009): The 1982 is nowhere near the quality of some of the Montroses made afterwards (1989, 1990, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2008), but it has aged better than expected having developed more complexity and richness than barrel samples suggested. Sweet kirsch, black currant, crushed rock, and floral notes are followed by a full-bodied, opulent, fleshy wine displaying no hard edges. It still possesses beautifully pure fruit as well as good body, but it should be consumed over the next 5-8 years. Release price: ($120.00/case)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspWA 91 (10/1997): This wine has turned out to be better than I originally thought. Made during a period when Montrose was flirting with a lighter style, the 1986 is one of the beefier efforts from that short-lived, stylistic detour. The wine reveals a dense ruby/purple color with only a hint of lightening at the edge. Fleshy, muscular, and powerful, with aromas of red and black fruits, earth, and spice, this medium to full-bodied, still tannic, brawny Montrose is not yet close to full maturity. It possesses a layered, chewy character, along with plenty of unresolved tannin in the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspWA 91 (10/1997): This wine has turned out to be better than I originally thought. Made during a period when Montrose was flirting with a lighter style, the 1986 is one of the beefier efforts from that short-lived, stylistic detour. The wine reveals a dense ruby/purple color with only a hint of lightening at the edge. Fleshy, muscular, and powerful, with aromas of red and black fruits, earth, and spice, this medium to full-bodied, still tannic, brawny Montrose is not yet close to full maturity. It possesses a layered, chewy character, along with plenty of unresolved tannin in the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspMB ***[*]: First tasted with Monsieur Lemoine at the chateau in September 1995. Like so many wines tasted from the cask, surprisingly sweet and spicy. In fact delicious. Two years later, almost too sweet on the nose. A good wine but the tannin very noticeable. Showing well at the MW tasting. Still very deep; good nose, fruit and coffee; well made. Complete. Drink 2006-2012._x000D__x000D_WA 91 (2/1997): Montrose has been one of Bordeaux's most consistently successful chateaux since 1989. An opaque purple color suggests a wine of considerable intensity. One of the most successful 1994s of the northern Medoc, the wine's closed aromatics offer jammy black fruits, plums, spice, and earth. On the palate, there is impressive extract, purity, and copious amounts of sweet blackcurrant fruit nicely balanced by moderate yet ripe tannin. Medium-bodied, with excellent to outstanding concentration, this impressive Montrose should be close to full maturity with another 4-5 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspWA 93 (2/1998): An explosively rich, exotic, fruity Montrose, the 1995 displays even more fat and extract than the 1996. There is less Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1995 blend, resulting in a fuller-bodied, more accessible and friendlier style. The wine exhibits an opaque black/ruby/purple color, as well as a ripe nose of black fruits, vanillin, and licorice. Powerful yet surprisingly accessible (the tannin is velvety and the acidity low), this terrific example of Montrose should be drinkable at a young age. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2028.IWC 91+ (6/1998): Excellent red-ruby color. Plum, currant, animal fur, smoked game, roasted nuts and graphite on the nose, plus a note of toffee. Lush and smooth in the mouth, with notes of minerals, leather and game. Still rather tightly wrapped following the mise, but very nicely balanced from the outset. Firm acidity gives the wine superb delineation and grip. Tannins are dusty and firm-and more obvious today than in the '97, despite the fact that the later year featured higher polyphenol levels.WS 88 (12/2007): Aromas of Indian spice, blackberry and currant. Subtle. Full-bodied, with slightly angular tannins, but soft and caressing in the finish. A little hollow but pretty.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now. 17,600 cases made. –JShttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspWA 93 (2/1998): An explosively rich, exotic, fruity Montrose, the 1995 displays even more fat and extract than the 1996. There is less Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1995 blend, resulting in a fuller-bodied, more accessible and friendlier style. The wine exhibits an opaque black/ruby/purple color, as well as a ripe nose of black fruits, vanillin, and licorice. Powerful yet surprisingly accessible (the tannin is velvety and the acidity low), this terrific example of Montrose should be drinkable at a young age. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2028.IWC 91+ (6/1998): Excellent red-ruby color. Plum, currant, animal fur, smoked game, roasted nuts and graphite on the nose, plus a note of toffee. Lush and smooth in the mouth, with notes of minerals, leather and game. Still rather tightly wrapped following the mise, but very nicely balanced from the outset. Firm acidity gives the wine superb delineation and grip. Tannins are dusty and firm-and more obvious today than in the '97, despite the fact that the later year featured higher polyphenol levels.WS 88 (12/2007): Aromas of Indian spice, blackberry and currant. Subtle. Full-bodied, with slightly angular tannins, but soft and caressing in the finish. A little hollow but pretty.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now. 17,600 cases made. –JShttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspWA 96 (4/2003): This estate has frequently hit the bull's eye over recent vintages, and the 2000 Montrose is the finest effort produced since the compelling 1990 and 1989. This gigantically sized, tannic, backward effort boasts a saturated inky purple color followed by a huge nose of acacia flavors, crushed blackberries, creme de cassis, vanilla, hickory smoke, and minerals. Extremely full-bodied, powerful, dense, and multi-layered, this unreal Montrose should last for 30+ years. A blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, this is a special wine that has exceptional purity and length. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2040.WS 96 (12/2006): Aromas of mint, berry and licorice follow through to a full-bodied palate that is thick and rich yet refined and reserved. This is dense and well-structured, with loads of vanilla, berry and lightly roasted fruit. Powerful but still holding back. Compacted and dense.--Non-blind Château Montrose vertical. Best after 2010. 15,000 cases made.IWC 94 (6/2003): Full red-ruby. Roasted, smoky aromas of blackberry, blueberry and licorice. Plush, dense and large-scaled; expands impressively in the mouth. Chocolatey-ripe but kept fresh by nicely integrated acidity. Offers lovely sweetness without going over the top. Finishes with big, dusty, horizontal tannins and lovely aromatic persistence. Offers extraordinary texture and depth of flavor for a wine with just 12.8% alcohol.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontrose.aspWA 90+ (4/2006): Made by dedicated proprietor Jean-Noel Herve, this superb offering is a sleeper of the vintage. It exhibits a dark ruby/purple color in addition to a fragrant perfume of blackberries, cherries, smoke, and licorice. Medium to full-bodied with superb purity as well as fruit, moderately high tannin, and admirable persistence, this wine is well above its pedigree. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2019.IWC 87-90 (6/2004): Bright ruby-red. Aromatic, nuanced nose dominated by black raspberry and chocolate. Silky and sweet, with flavors of raspberry, coffee, minerals and chocolatey oak. Finishes with rather lush tannins and very good length. Nicely pliant for Fronsac and for the year.WS 85-88 (6/2004): Thick and rich, with jam and tart character. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft tannins and a jammy finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMoulinHautLaroque.aspWA 88 (4/2001): This estate is finally making a good second wine. The 1998 Le Petit-Mouton, a blend of 61% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 14% Cabernet Franc, it exhibits more of a Clerc-Milon-like character than Mouton. It offers good color, medium to full body, plenty of smoky cassis and licorice, and a soft, expansive, drinkable style. Anticipated maturity: now-2012.WS 86 (1/2001): Earthy red with berry and black olive character. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow midpalate. Second wine of Mouton-Rothschild. Best after 2005. 4,650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 88 (4/2001): This estate is finally making a good second wine. The 1998 Le Petit-Mouton, a blend of 61% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 14% Cabernet Franc, it exhibits more of a Clerc-Milon-like character than Mouton. It offers good color, medium to full body, plenty of smoky cassis and licorice, and a soft, expansive, drinkable style. Anticipated maturity: now-2012.WS 86 (1/2001): Earthy red with berry and black olive character. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow midpalate. Second wine of Mouton-Rothschild. Best after 2005. 4,650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWS 89 (3/2008): Licorice, mineral and currant aromas follow through to a medium-to-full body, with fine tannins and a mineral and currant aftertaste. Quite chewy. The second wine of Mouton-Rothschild. Best after 2011.WA 88 (4/2008): An excellent second wine, the 2005 Le Petit Mouton exhibits soft, lush, subtle herb-infused black currant fruit along with notions of licorice, smoke, and burning embers. Enjoy this well-made effort over the next 7-8 years.IWC 87-90 (6/2006): (60% cabernet sauvignon, 20% cabernet franc and 20% merlot) Ruby-red. Pungent aromas of currant, lead pencil, minerals and flowers. Juicy, floral and precise, with a penetrating flavor of blackcurrant. In a leaner style but with lovely sweetness of fruit and some incipient complexity suggesting that this will be drinkable within four or five years. Very good for this second wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 93 (6/1996): I have had a remarkable number of opportunities to taste this wine. One of the most frustratingly irregular wines I have ever encountered, the 1970 Mouton can range from pure nectar, to a wine that is angular, austere, and frightfully hard and tannic. This bottle (one of the Reserve du Chateau bottlings that was mistakenly released by the estate and labeled with the letters R.C., rather than a number) was impossible to assess when decanted, given its hard, tough, impenetrable style. Nearly eight hours later, the wine had opened magnificently to reveal a classic bouquet of sweet cassis, tobacco, minerals, and exotic spice aromas. Opulent, full-bodied, thick, and juicy, the extraordinary evolution of this particular bottle would make a persuasive argument for long-term decanting. After being perplexed throughout much of this wine's evolution, I was reassured by this bottle. No doubt Mouton's high Cabernet Sauvignon content causes this wine to go through a tight, hard, ungenerous stage, and the 1970 requires 5-7 more years of cellaring.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWS 96 (5/1993): Deep garnet; fragrant tar and black truffle nose; extremely concentrated; big and mouth-filling, with very dense cassis flavor; enormous, generous fruit; a voluptuous claret.WA 93 (6/1996): I have had a remarkable number of opportunities to taste this wine. One of the most frustratingly irregular wines I have ever encountered, the 1970 Mouton can range from pure nectar, to a wine that is angular, austere, and frightfully hard and tannic. This bottle (one of the Reserve du Chateau bottlings that was mistakenly released by the estate and labeled with the letters R.C., rather than a number) was impossible to assess when decanted, given its hard, tough, impenetrable style. Nearly eight hours later, the wine had opened magnificently to reveal a classic bouquet of sweet cassis, tobacco, minerals, and exotic spice aromas. Opulent, full-bodied, thick, and juicy, the extraordinary evolution of this particular bottle would make a persuasive argument for long-term decanting. After being perplexed throughout much of this wine's evolution, I was reassured by this bottle. No doubt Mouton's high Cabernet Sauvignon content causes this wine to go through a tight, hard, ungenerous stage, and the 1970 requires 5-7 more years of cellaring.IWC 94 (8/2011): Bright red with an amber rim. Captivating nose of dark plum, blackcurrant, oak, coffee, cocoa and flowers. Juicy, sweet and suave on entry, then brightly focused in its red fruit and black flavors complicated by cedar and citrus. Finishes with flinty, saline nuances and very suave tannins. This outstanding wine is perfectly balanced and light on its feet, still very young and capable of a very long life. It might disappoint those looking for a blockbuster, but I love its overall sense of refinement. An essence of claret. MB *** (9/1999): No matter its popularity and the price it fetches (the autumn 2001 auction price was GBP920 a case; Haut-Brion GBP800, Lafite GBP820 and Latour and astonishing GBP2600), I think Mouton '70 is flawed. Read on. First tasted in 1974, fairly deep and solid but not excessively so, with both its nose and taste exhibiting a pleasant, sweet fruitiness. I first started to note a certain leanness and austerity in the late 1970s. Through the 1980s my notes include 'scraggy', 'swingeing upurned acidity', 'high-toned' (nose), 'a bit edgy', more acidity than tannin, 'a bit lean', though flesh and good fruit also commented on. My last four notes consistently remark upon this edge of acidity. Higher than usual volatility at a pre-sale tasting (1994); a raw, tannic imperiale 'but good with chicken cassoulette' (1996); 'very fragrant, tea, cedar, holding well', but a touch of acidity (at the Hollywood Wine Society's Mouton tasting in 1998). Most recently, deep but something lacking, fairly fragrant, with Mouton intensity; on the lean side and a bit raw, though with zestful Mouton cassis. Fine if you want a flavoury drink but, unlike the Latour, I would not cellar it in the hope of it shrugging off that acidity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 65 (2/1982): The year Mouton was officially made a "first-growth'' was celebrated by a beautiful label done by Pablo Picasso. Whether judged by an art or wine critic, the label clearly surpasses the wine. Very oaky and woody, with rapidly fading fruit, this is a wine worth having if only for the historic significance of the bottle's label. Anticipated maturity: Now-probably in serious decline.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[*]: I also had the pleasure, and always the privilege, of tasting this in cask in June 1986. At Mouton, one does not taste directly from the cask. In this instance from a cask sample in the small tasting room of the maitre de chai. The wine was marvellously deep of course, but not opaque; glorious young fruit superstructure above a firm foundation. A touch of leanness but fleshy. Already by December 1990 it had started to mature, its nose inimitably Mouton, spicy Cabernet, glorious; showing some elegance, lovely texture and aftertaste. Eighteen subsequent notes, and even if space permitted, some would be repetitive if not tedious. I have therefore looked up notes made in 1995, when it was at an interim stage of maturity. Alas at the 15th Grand Awards banquet in New York I found it 'surprisingly chunky and uncharming. Expected better'. The filet mignon was excellent, so it must have been all the chatter and noise in the Marriott Marquis ballroom. Or it might just have been me, because at my Bordeaux Club dinner in January 1996 I described the bouquet as 'exotic, lovely Cabernet Sauvignon, and at 9.40pm very fragrant'. Note the time: I had drawn the cork at 4.30pm, decanted it at 5.40pm and served it at 8.50pm… Back to Mouton, briefly. At exactly 15 years of age, two bottles both medium deep, one still a bit hard but fragrant, with a lovely texture, soft, fruity. The other, strangely, with a lovely sweet bouquet but a touch of woodiness and acidity. Both at a wine dinner at home, November 2000. Most recently, another Bordeaux Club dinner, this time hosted by Dr. Louis Hughes, a new member. It had all the exotic Mouton fragrance; soft, flavoury, crisp but, I noted, with a touch of astringency. An exciting wine but at the top but not yet over it. Will continue recklessly for another ten years or more.WA 90 (10/1997): The rich, complex, well-developed bouquet of oriental spices, toasty oak, herbs, and ripe fruit is wonderful. On the palate, the wine is also rich, forward, long, and sexy. It ranks behind both Haut-Brion and Chateau Margaux in 1985. I am surprised by how evolved and ready to drink this wine is. Readers looking for a big, boldly constructed Mouton should search out other vintages, as this is a tame, forward, medium-weight wine that is close to full maturity. It is capable of lasting another 15+ years. This estate compares their 1985 to their 1959, but to me it is more akin to their 1962 or 1953. Anticipated maturity: Now-2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 89 (1/1993): The 1988 Mouton has an attractive aroma of exotic spices, minerals, coffee, black currants, and sweet oak. Much like the 1989, the bouquet is staggering, but the flavors are distinctly less profound. In the mouth, it is a much firmer, tougher, more obviously tannic wine than the 1989, with medium body and outstanding ripeness. A beautifully made 1988 that will last 20-25 years, its short finish keeps it from being sublime. The 1988 is somewhat reminiscent of the 1985, but with more tannin. Anticipated maturity: Now-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[**] (3/2000): Also exciting in its youth, with Mouton's inimitable, spicy, cassis aroma, flesh and fruit. Twelve months after the harvest, peppery, vigorous, its tannins on the bitter side. The following spring (1991), I found it so much more exotic than the '90. Sweet. Fabulous. Rodenstock produced an imperiale, prematurely, in September 1995: very dry. But a couple of months later, bottles (I think we had two) with wonderful mouthfilling fruit at a tasting I conducted for Goldman Sachs at Christie's in Frankfurt. No longer opaque, a deep black cherry colour. Superbly fragrant, minty, peppery fragrance and lovely crisp Cabernet Sauvignon flavour. Most recently, this time in Hamburg at a comparative tasting of '89s and '82s, I noted its 'legs', fantastic bouquet and flavour. A touch of iodine, lovely mid-palate fruit, its high Cabernet Sauvignon content (abuot 76%) having provided the exclusive Mouton flavour and character. Leaner than expected and still very tannic. Drink 2010-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[**] (3/2000): Also exciting in its youth, with Mouton's inimitable, spicy, cassis aroma, flesh and fruit. Twelve months after the harvest, peppery, vigorous, its tannins on the bitter side. The following spring (1991), I found it so much more exotic than the '90. Sweet. Fabulous. Rodenstock produced an imperiale, prematurely, in September 1995: very dry. But a couple of months later, bottles (I think we had two) with wonderful mouthfilling fruit at a tasting I conducted for Goldman Sachs at Christie's in Frankfurt. No longer opaque, a deep black cherry colour. Superbly fragrant, minty, peppery fragrance and lovely crisp Cabernet Sauvignon flavour. Most recently, this time in Hamburg at a comparative tasting of '89s and '82s, I noted its 'legs', fantastic bouquet and flavour. A touch of iodine, lovely mid-palate fruit, its high Cabernet Sauvignon content (abuot 76%) having provided the exclusive Mouton flavour and character. Leaner than expected and still very tannic. Drink 2010-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[**] (3/2000): Also exciting in its youth, with Mouton's inimitable, spicy, cassis aroma, flesh and fruit. Twelve months after the harvest, peppery, vigorous, its tannins on the bitter side. The following spring (1991), I found it so much more exotic than the '90. Sweet. Fabulous. Rodenstock produced an imperiale, prematurely, in September 1995: very dry. But a couple of months later, bottles (I think we had two) with wonderful mouthfilling fruit at a tasting I conducted for Goldman Sachs at Christie's in Frankfurt. No longer opaque, a deep black cherry colour. Superbly fragrant, minty, peppery fragrance and lovely crisp Cabernet Sauvignon flavour. Most recently, this time in Hamburg at a comparative tasting of '89s and '82s, I noted its 'legs', fantastic bouquet and flavour. A touch of iodine, lovely mid-palate fruit, its high Cabernet Sauvignon content (abuot 76%) having provided the exclusive Mouton flavour and character. Leaner than expected and still very tannic. Drink 2010-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[**] (3/2000): Also exciting in its youth, with Mouton's inimitable, spicy, cassis aroma, flesh and fruit. Twelve months after the harvest, peppery, vigorous, its tannins on the bitter side. The following spring (1991), I found it so much more exotic than the '90. Sweet. Fabulous. Rodenstock produced an imperiale, prematurely, in September 1995: very dry. But a couple of months later, bottles (I think we had two) with wonderful mouthfilling fruit at a tasting I conducted for Goldman Sachs at Christie's in Frankfurt. No longer opaque, a deep black cherry colour. Superbly fragrant, minty, peppery fragrance and lovely crisp Cabernet Sauvignon flavour. Most recently, this time in Hamburg at a comparative tasting of '89s and '82s, I noted its 'legs', fantastic bouquet and flavour. A touch of iodine, lovely mid-palate fruit, its high Cabernet Sauvignon content (abuot 76%) having provided the exclusive Mouton flavour and character. Leaner than expected and still very tannic. Drink 2010-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[**] (3/2000): Also exciting in its youth, with Mouton's inimitable, spicy, cassis aroma, flesh and fruit. Twelve months after the harvest, peppery, vigorous, its tannins on the bitter side. The following spring (1991), I found it so much more exotic than the '90. Sweet. Fabulous. Rodenstock produced an imperiale, prematurely, in September 1995: very dry. But a couple of months later, bottles (I think we had two) with wonderful mouthfilling fruit at a tasting I conducted for Goldman Sachs at Christie's in Frankfurt. No longer opaque, a deep black cherry colour. Superbly fragrant, minty, peppery fragrance and lovely crisp Cabernet Sauvignon flavour. Most recently, this time in Hamburg at a comparative tasting of '89s and '82s, I noted its 'legs', fantastic bouquet and flavour. A touch of iodine, lovely mid-palate fruit, its high Cabernet Sauvignon content (abuot 76%) having provided the exclusive Mouton flavour and character. Leaner than expected and still very tannic. Drink 2010-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[**] (3/2000): Also exciting in its youth, with Mouton's inimitable, spicy, cassis aroma, flesh and fruit. Twelve months after the harvest, peppery, vigorous, its tannins on the bitter side. The following spring (1991), I found it so much more exotic than the '90. Sweet. Fabulous. Rodenstock produced an imperiale, prematurely, in September 1995: very dry. But a couple of months later, bottles (I think we had two) with wonderful mouthfilling fruit at a tasting I conducted for Goldman Sachs at Christie's in Frankfurt. No longer opaque, a deep black cherry colour. Superbly fragrant, minty, peppery fragrance and lovely crisp Cabernet Sauvignon flavour. Most recently, this time in Hamburg at a comparative tasting of '89s and '82s, I noted its 'legs', fantastic bouquet and flavour. A touch of iodine, lovely mid-palate fruit, its high Cabernet Sauvignon content (abuot 76%) having provided the exclusive Mouton flavour and character. Leaner than expected and still very tannic. Drink 2010-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[*]: In 1991 I preferred the 1989 which, of course, had a head start, being a year older. Yet, a matter of two years after bottling it had generated an almost explosively rich, spicy nose; very sweet, full and packed with goodies. Leaping over the next two notes (poor bottles at the Eigensatz tasting), its bouquet was fully developed and its fine texture and length noted (Hollywood Wine Society Mouton presentation, 1998) and a further jump of two years to Penning-Rowsell's '10 year' tasting. Here, alongside its first growth peers, it was still fairly deep coloured; bouquet clamouring to get out, opening up rapturously, though I was too aware of the new oak spiciness- attractive but oak, like garlic, should be present but not overdone. Sweet, rich, lively, a touch of leanness and pinched tannin and acidity. Impressive but needs time. Drink 2005-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[*]: In 1991 I preferred the 1989 which, of course, had a head start, being a year older. Yet, a matter of two years after bottling it had generated an almost explosively rich, spicy nose; very sweet, full and packed with goodies. Leaping over the next two notes (poor bottles at the Eigensatz tasting), its bouquet was fully developed and its fine texture and length noted (Hollywood Wine Society Mouton presentation, 1998) and a further jump of two years to Penning-Rowsell's '10 year' tasting. Here, alongside its first growth peers, it was still fairly deep coloured; bouquet clamouring to get out, opening up rapturously, though I was too aware of the new oak spiciness- attractive but oak, like garlic, should be present but not overdone. Sweet, rich, lively, a touch of leanness and pinched tannin and acidity. Impressive but needs time. Drink 2005-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspMB ***[*]: In 1991 I preferred the 1989 which, of course, had a head start, being a year older. Yet, a matter of two years after bottling it had generated an almost explosively rich, spicy nose; very sweet, full and packed with goodies. Leaping over the next two notes (poor bottles at the Eigensatz tasting), its bouquet was fully developed and its fine texture and length noted (Hollywood Wine Society Mouton presentation, 1998) and a further jump of two years to Penning-Rowsell's '10 year' tasting. Here, alongside its first growth peers, it was still fairly deep coloured; bouquet clamouring to get out, opening up rapturously, though I was too aware of the new oak spiciness- attractive but oak, like garlic, should be present but not overdone. Sweet, rich, lively, a touch of leanness and pinched tannin and acidity. Impressive but needs time. Drink 2005-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 90 (2/1997): After less than persuasive performances in two potentially great years, 1989 and 1990, Mouton-Rothschild appears to have settled down, producing fine efforts in recent vintages, culminating with the enormously promising, unquestionably profound 1995. The 1993 is a beautifully made wine which could be considered a sleeper of the vintage. The wine boasts a dark purple color, followed by a sweet, pain grillee, roasted nut, and cassis-scented bouquet that is just beginning to open. In the mouth, the wine may not possess the body and volume of a vintage such as 1990 or 1989, but there is more richness of fruit, a sweet, ripe, pureness to the wine, as well as medium body and outstanding balance. This moderately tannic, well-focused, surprisingly rich 1993 is capable of 15-20 years of evolution. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 95 (2/1998): Bottled in June, 1997, this profound Mouton is more accessible than the more muscular 1996. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Merlot, it reveals an opaque purple color, and reluctant aromas of cassis, truffles, coffee, licorice, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is "great stuff," with superb density, a full-bodied personality, rich mid-palate, and a layered, profound finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. There is outstanding purity and high tannin, but my instincts suggest this wine is lower in acidity and slightly fleshier than the brawnier, bigger 1996. Both are great efforts from Mouton-Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 95 (2/1998): Bottled in June, 1997, this profound Mouton is more accessible than the more muscular 1996. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Merlot, it reveals an opaque purple color, and reluctant aromas of cassis, truffles, coffee, licorice, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is "great stuff," with superb density, a full-bodied personality, rich mid-palate, and a layered, profound finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. There is outstanding purity and high tannin, but my instincts suggest this wine is lower in acidity and slightly fleshier than the brawnier, bigger 1996. Both are great efforts from Mouton-Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 95 (2/1998): Bottled in June, 1997, this profound Mouton is more accessible than the more muscular 1996. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Merlot, it reveals an opaque purple color, and reluctant aromas of cassis, truffles, coffee, licorice, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is "great stuff," with superb density, a full-bodied personality, rich mid-palate, and a layered, profound finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. There is outstanding purity and high tannin, but my instincts suggest this wine is lower in acidity and slightly fleshier than the brawnier, bigger 1996. Both are great efforts from Mouton-Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 95 (2/1998): Bottled in June, 1997, this profound Mouton is more accessible than the more muscular 1996. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Merlot, it reveals an opaque purple color, and reluctant aromas of cassis, truffles, coffee, licorice, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is "great stuff," with superb density, a full-bodied personality, rich mid-palate, and a layered, profound finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. There is outstanding purity and high tannin, but my instincts suggest this wine is lower in acidity and slightly fleshier than the brawnier, bigger 1996. Both are great efforts from Mouton-Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 95 (2/1998): Bottled in June, 1997, this profound Mouton is more accessible than the more muscular 1996. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Merlot, it reveals an opaque purple color, and reluctant aromas of cassis, truffles, coffee, licorice, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is "great stuff," with superb density, a full-bodied personality, rich mid-palate, and a layered, profound finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. There is outstanding purity and high tannin, but my instincts suggest this wine is lower in acidity and slightly fleshier than the brawnier, bigger 1996. Both are great efforts from Mouton-Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 97 (4/2003): The 2000 Mouton Rothschild is at its best with about 24-48 hours of decanting. A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot, the wine offers a saturated ruby/purple color in addition to reticent but promising aromas of toast, coffee, licorice, creme de cassis, and roasted nuts. Dense, chewy, and backward, with tremendous purity and density in addition to obvious toasty oak, it is full-bodied, powerful, tannic, and backward. Twenty-four to 48 hours of aeration only hints at its ultimate potential. This blockbuster will be exceptionally long-lived. It is not as expressive as the other first-growth Medocs, but give it time. As I predicted in my first report on the millennium vintage (April, 2001), Philippine de Rothschild could be expected to do something special with her presentation of 2000. She has exceeded everyone's expectations with a work of art. Those who have seen the extraordinary packaging of the 2000 Mouton Rothschild must certainly realize this is a brilliant achievement. The bottle is extraordinary, and likely to have nearly as much value empty as full! Her genius is obvious, but it's what's inside that counts!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 97 (4/2003): The 2000 Mouton Rothschild is at its best with about 24-48 hours of decanting. A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot, the wine offers a saturated ruby/purple color in addition to reticent but promising aromas of toast, coffee, licorice, creme de cassis, and roasted nuts. Dense, chewy, and backward, with tremendous purity and density in addition to obvious toasty oak, it is full-bodied, powerful, tannic, and backward. Twenty-four to 48 hours of aeration only hints at its ultimate potential. This blockbuster will be exceptionally long-lived. It is not as expressive as the other first-growth Medocs, but give it time. As I predicted in my first report on the millennium vintage (April, 2001), Philippine de Rothschild could be expected to do something special with her presentation of 2000. She has exceeded everyone's expectations with a work of art. Those who have seen the extraordinary packaging of the 2000 Mouton Rothschild must certainly realize this is a brilliant achievement. The bottle is extraordinary, and likely to have nearly as much value empty as full! Her genius is obvious, but it's what's inside that counts!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 93 (4/2005): Dense purple to the rim, this wine exhibits the classic cassis aroma that is so characteristic of Mouton. Medium to full-bodied, tannic, powerful, and cut somewhat from the 1988 mold, this is a backward, chewy, well-endowed Mouton-Rothschild that will require considerable patience from those who purchase it. A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, the wine needs a good decade of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 93 (4/2005): Dense purple to the rim, this wine exhibits the classic cassis aroma that is so characteristic of Mouton. Medium to full-bodied, tannic, powerful, and cut somewhat from the 1988 mold, this is a backward, chewy, well-endowed Mouton-Rothschild that will require considerable patience from those who purchase it. A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, the wine needs a good decade of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 92+ (6/2007): I can’t say much for the painting by Prince Charles on the label, but what’s in the bottle is a powerful, classic, dense ruby/purple-hued Mouton with a full-bodied style, brutal tannin, impressive concentration, and a primordial backwardness that will require 10-15 years of cellaring. Built along the lines of a modern day 1966 or 1988, the 2004 reveals plenty of power and concentration, but the biting tannins will preclude any enjoyable consumption over the next decade. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2035. IWC 92 (6/2007): Good full ruby-red. Expressive aromas of currant, coffee, dark chocolate, tobacco, mocha and smoked meat. Juicy, spicy and classically dry; rather tight and backward for 2004 and not a particularly fleshy style, even if it's nicely sweetened by nutty oak. But this boasts excellent precision and verve and the aromatic finishing flavors build slowly and steadily. Firm acids and tannins give this plenty of backbone for development in bottle. With extended aeration, the texture became silkier.WS 93 (3/2007): Beautiful aromas of crushed berries and chocolate, with hints of Indian spices. Full-bodied, with silky, velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. A lovely wine for the vintage. This is the first wine from the new winemaking team at Mouton and is showing really well. Best after 2011. 23,000 cases made. JR 18 (4/2005): (Cabernet Sauvignon 70%, Cabernet Franc 12%, Merlot 15%, Petit Verdot 3%; 40 hl/ha average yield; 57% of production went into the grand vin so that there is actually less available of the 2004 than of 2003; 92% new oak but barrels have been progressively less toasted since 2000). An extremely distinctive wine – almost mid Atlantic rather than Pauillac and therefore of course very winning. Very dark purple. Hidden, deep-flavoured nose. Some rather sweet notes – even ripe Merlot notes which dominate at the moment. Very smooth and flattering in texture with real polish – very supple tannins with lots of fruit on the front palate. Not nearly as dry as one would expect of a first growth Pauillac – almost a hint of Opus One in texture? No hint of oak. Very interesting and not at all severe.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 92+ (6/2007): I can’t say much for the painting by Prince Charles on the label, but what’s in the bottle is a powerful, classic, dense ruby/purple-hued Mouton with a full-bodied style, brutal tannin, impressive concentration, and a primordial backwardness that will require 10-15 years of cellaring. Built along the lines of a modern day 1966 or 1988, the 2004 reveals plenty of power and concentration, but the biting tannins will preclude any enjoyable consumption over the next decade. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2035. IWC 92 (6/2007): Good full ruby-red. Expressive aromas of currant, coffee, dark chocolate, tobacco, mocha and smoked meat. Juicy, spicy and classically dry; rather tight and backward for 2004 and not a particularly fleshy style, even if it's nicely sweetened by nutty oak. But this boasts excellent precision and verve and the aromatic finishing flavors build slowly and steadily. Firm acids and tannins give this plenty of backbone for development in bottle. With extended aeration, the texture became silkier.WS 93 (3/2007): Beautiful aromas of crushed berries and chocolate, with hints of Indian spices. Full-bodied, with silky, velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. A lovely wine for the vintage. This is the first wine from the new winemaking team at Mouton and is showing really well. Best after 2011. 23,000 cases made. JR 18 (4/2005): (Cabernet Sauvignon 70%, Cabernet Franc 12%, Merlot 15%, Petit Verdot 3%; 40 hl/ha average yield; 57% of production went into the grand vin so that there is actually less available of the 2004 than of 2003; 92% new oak but barrels have been progressively less toasted since 2000). An extremely distinctive wine – almost mid Atlantic rather than Pauillac and therefore of course very winning. Very dark purple. Hidden, deep-flavoured nose. Some rather sweet notes – even ripe Merlot notes which dominate at the moment. Very smooth and flattering in texture with real polish – very supple tannins with lots of fruit on the front palate. Not nearly as dry as one would expect of a first growth Pauillac – almost a hint of Opus One in texture? No hint of oak. Very interesting and not at all severe.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 96 (4/2008): The 2005 Mouton Rothschild will have to take a back seat to the prodigious 2006, but administrator Philippe Dalhuin deserves considerable credit for pushing Mouton to higher quality levels over recent years. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest mostly Merlot, the dark purple-hued 2005 exhibits a restrained but promising nose of cedar, tobacco leaf, creme de cassis, and toasty oak. Full-bodied, tannic, and extremely backward, with the vintage’s tell-tale acidity, it appears to be even more closed in the bottle than it was from barrel. It does possess a long finish and multilayered mouthfeel. This is an undeniably outstanding, yet restrained, shy wine for a Mouton Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+WS 95 (3/2008): Dark purple black in color. Complex aromas of mineral, licorice, lead pencil and blackberry follow through to a full body, with ultrafine tannins and a caressing, pretty finish. Has a lovely texture. Shows elegance and refinement. Best after 2012.IWC 95 (6/2008): Full ruby-red. Explosive, superripe aromas of black raspberry, currant, graphite and tobacco leaf. Outsized, opulent and generous; this big boy saturates the entire mouth. There's an almost exotic character to the plum and cedar flavors. Spreads out impressively on the back end, coating the palate with ripe tannins. The 2006 is at once finer and more powerful, with more noble tannins, but this is more opulent.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 96 (4/2008): The 2005 Mouton Rothschild will have to take a back seat to the prodigious 2006, but administrator Philippe Dalhuin deserves considerable credit for pushing Mouton to higher quality levels over recent years. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest mostly Merlot, the dark purple-hued 2005 exhibits a restrained but promising nose of cedar, tobacco leaf, creme de cassis, and toasty oak. Full-bodied, tannic, and extremely backward, with the vintage’s tell-tale acidity, it appears to be even more closed in the bottle than it was from barrel. It does possess a long finish and multilayered mouthfeel. This is an undeniably outstanding, yet restrained, shy wine for a Mouton Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+WS 95 (3/2008): Dark purple black in color. Complex aromas of mineral, licorice, lead pencil and blackberry follow through to a full body, with ultrafine tannins and a caressing, pretty finish. Has a lovely texture. Shows elegance and refinement. Best after 2012.IWC 95 (6/2008): Full ruby-red. Explosive, superripe aromas of black raspberry, currant, graphite and tobacco leaf. Outsized, opulent and generous; this big boy saturates the entire mouth. There's an almost exotic character to the plum and cedar flavors. Spreads out impressively on the back end, coating the palate with ripe tannins. The 2006 is at once finer and more powerful, with more noble tannins, but this is more opulent.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 90 (2/1997): After less than persuasive performances in two potentially great years, 1989 and 1990, Mouton-Rothschild appears to have settled down, producing fine efforts in recent vintages, culminating with the enormously promising, unquestionably profound 1995. The 1993 is a beautifully made wine which could be considered a sleeper of the vintage. The wine boasts a dark purple color, followed by a sweet, pain grillee, roasted nut, and cassis-scented bouquet that is just beginning to open. In the mouth, the wine may not possess the body and volume of a vintage such as 1990 or 1989, but there is more richness of fruit, a sweet, ripe, pureness to the wine, as well as medium body and outstanding balance. This moderately tannic, well-focused, surprisingly rich 1993 is capable of 15-20 years of evolution. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 90 (2/1997): After less than persuasive performances in two potentially great years, 1989 and 1990, Mouton-Rothschild appears to have settled down, producing fine efforts in recent vintages, culminating with the enormously promising, unquestionably profound 1995. The 1993 is a beautifully made wine which could be considered a sleeper of the vintage. The wine boasts a dark purple color, followed by a sweet, pain grillee, roasted nut, and cassis-scented bouquet that is just beginning to open. In the mouth, the wine may not possess the body and volume of a vintage such as 1990 or 1989, but there is more richness of fruit, a sweet, ripe, pureness to the wine, as well as medium body and outstanding balance. This moderately tannic, well-focused, surprisingly rich 1993 is capable of 15-20 years of evolution. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 90 (2/1997): After less than persuasive performances in two potentially great years, 1989 and 1990, Mouton-Rothschild appears to have settled down, producing fine efforts in recent vintages, culminating with the enormously promising, unquestionably profound 1995. The 1993 is a beautifully made wine which could be considered a sleeper of the vintage. The wine boasts a dark purple color, followed by a sweet, pain grillee, roasted nut, and cassis-scented bouquet that is just beginning to open. In the mouth, the wine may not possess the body and volume of a vintage such as 1990 or 1989, but there is more richness of fruit, a sweet, ripe, pureness to the wine, as well as medium body and outstanding balance. This moderately tannic, well-focused, surprisingly rich 1993 is capable of 15-20 years of evolution. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMouton-Rothschild.aspWA 89 (1/1998): This is one of the finest Nairacs I have ever tasted. It is an especially rich, powerful, concentrated wine with gobs of glycerin-injected pineapple fruit, full body, and a long, luscious, smooth finish. There is plenty of acidity and evidence of botrytis, so I would expect a relatively long evolution for this top-class wine. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted, 3/90.WS 77 (12/1989): Simple, fruity and ripe, smooth in texture and showing hints of honey and spice on the finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChNairac.aspWA 94 (4/2003): This is one of St-Emilion's foothill (pieds de cotes) vineyards planted with 90% Merlot and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The vinification is classic Stephan von Neipperg and Stephane Derenoncourt. Undoubtedly the finest effort this property has yet produced, the black-colored 2000 offers up sexy notes of espresso, chocolate, Asian spices, black cherry liqueur, and blackberries. Opulent, chewy, and powerful, this deep, full-bodied wine has layers of ripe fruit, huge power, yet a classic, well-delineated style. A brilliant wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2019.IWC 90 (6/2003): Medium ruby. Roasted red and black fruits and a meaty nuance on the nose. Sweet, fat and very ripe; seems more Pomerol in style than St. Emilion. Finishes with full, ripe tannins. "A bon-bon, not an intellectual wine," says proprietor Stephan von Neipperg.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosduOratoire.aspWA 94 (4/2003): This is one of St-Emilion's foothill (pieds de cotes) vineyards planted with 90% Merlot and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The vinification is classic Stephan von Neipperg and Stephane Derenoncourt. Undoubtedly the finest effort this property has yet produced, the black-colored 2000 offers up sexy notes of espresso, chocolate, Asian spices, black cherry liqueur, and blackberries. Opulent, chewy, and powerful, this deep, full-bodied wine has layers of ripe fruit, huge power, yet a classic, well-delineated style. A brilliant wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2019.IWC 90 (6/2003): Medium ruby. Roasted red and black fruits and a meaty nuance on the nose. Sweet, fat and very ripe; seems more Pomerol in style than St. Emilion. Finishes with full, ripe tannins. "A bon-bon, not an intellectual wine," says proprietor Stephan von Neipperg.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosduOratoire.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChOrmesdePez.aspWA 90 (4/2008): The second wine, the 2005 Les Pagodes de Cos, is already delicious. Offering plenty of cedar, cappuccino, and black cherry notes in a medium-bodied, seamless style with no hard edges, it will provide plenty of pleasure over the next decade.IWC 87-89 (6/2006): (a 50/50 blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot) Ruby-red. Coolish aromas of black cherry and licorice. Supple, fresh and fruit-driven, with enticing floral lift to the sweet, pliant flavors. Finishes with ripe tannins. Excellent for this second wine.JR 16.5 (7/2009): Slightly simple rim. Sweet oak on the nose. Very glossy and polished – yet it is recognisably St-Estèphe. Spicy. Attractive drink.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LesPagodesdesCos.aspMB **** (2/2001): Also very popular, and not just because of its English name, bottled extensively by merchants. A superb, ripe, fleshy, spicy well-muscled magnum in 1989; alas, in 1994, a corked bottle which, in any case, would have been thrashed by the '61. Most recently, medium deep, fully mature; classic, cedary bouquet; superb sweetness and ripeness, lovely flavour, gloriously rich and harmonious.WA nr (10/1994): A Possible Legend Candidatehttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspWA 95 (6/1996): Not yet fully mature, the 1970 Palmer is one of the great wines of the vintage. It exhibits a dark, opaque garnet color, and an emerging, fabulously complex, exotic nose of licorice, over-ripe plums and blackcurrants, soy, cedar, and minerals. Rich and concentrated, with medium to full body, a sweet inner-core of fruit, firm but silky tannin, and a long, rich finish, this remains a youthful, potentially superb Palmer. While approachable, it will benefit from another 3-5 years of cellaring, and will keep through the first 10-15 years of the next century.WS 91 (5/1993): Medium-deep garnet; cedar, tar and black truffle nose, with cassis emerging; very ripe and rich, with mature fruit flavors, a sinewy texture and great length; at its peak.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspWA 95 (6/1996): Not yet fully mature, the 1970 Palmer is one of the great wines of the vintage. It exhibits a dark, opaque garnet color, and an emerging, fabulously complex, exotic nose of licorice, over-ripe plums and blackcurrants, soy, cedar, and minerals. Rich and concentrated, with medium to full body, a sweet inner-core of fruit, firm but silky tannin, and a long, rich finish, this remains a youthful, potentially superb Palmer. While approachable, it will benefit from another 3-5 years of cellaring, and will keep through the first 10-15 years of the next century.WS 91 (5/1993): Medium-deep garnet; cedar, tar and black truffle nose, with cassis emerging; very ripe and rich, with mature fruit flavors, a sinewy texture and great length; at its peak.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspIWC 93 (8/2002): Full, deep red. Spicy aromas of cassis and rose petal, with a whiff of meat. Then wonderfully penetrating and classy, with bright acidity giving the wine superb clarity and thrust. This has terrific structure. Finishes very long and fine, with excellent grip. By far the finest bottle I've tasted to date of this wine, and one of the real surprises of the tasting. (My second bottle showed roasted redcurrant, leather, meat and smoky oak on the nose; and a sweet, suave, broad palate without quite the structure and grip of the first sample. But this wine, too, offered compelling sweetness and rated 91 points.) Drink now through 2015.WS 90 (11/1998): A well-crafted red with beautiful structure. Dark ruby-garnet in color, with a lot of violet and earth aromas. Full-bodied, with loads of silky tannins and a long, sweet fruit finish. Has always been outstanding.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now.WA 89 (6/2000): This wine has turned out far better than predicted. The 1982 has become more delineated and put on weight. The 1982 is a juicy, complex, Pomerol-inspired effort with abundant black cherry and black currant fruit presented in a medium to full-bodied, plump, straightforward style. Fleshy, fresh, and lively, it should be consumed over the next 7-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspIWC 93 (8/2002): Full, deep red. Spicy aromas of cassis and rose petal, with a whiff of meat. Then wonderfully penetrating and classy, with bright acidity giving the wine superb clarity and thrust. This has terrific structure. Finishes very long and fine, with excellent grip. By far the finest bottle I've tasted to date of this wine, and one of the real surprises of the tasting. (My second bottle showed roasted redcurrant, leather, meat and smoky oak on the nose; and a sweet, suave, broad palate without quite the structure and grip of the first sample. But this wine, too, offered compelling sweetness and rated 91 points.) Drink now through 2015.WS 90 (11/1998): A well-crafted red with beautiful structure. Dark ruby-garnet in color, with a lot of violet and earth aromas. Full-bodied, with loads of silky tannins and a long, sweet fruit finish. Has always been outstanding.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now.WA 89 (6/2000): This wine has turned out far better than predicted. The 1982 has become more delineated and put on weight. The 1982 is a juicy, complex, Pomerol-inspired effort with abundant black cherry and black currant fruit presented in a medium to full-bodied, plump, straightforward style. Fleshy, fresh, and lively, it should be consumed over the next 7-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspIWC 93 (8/2002): Full, deep red. Spicy aromas of cassis and rose petal, with a whiff of meat. Then wonderfully penetrating and classy, with bright acidity giving the wine superb clarity and thrust. This has terrific structure. Finishes very long and fine, with excellent grip. By far the finest bottle I've tasted to date of this wine, and one of the real surprises of the tasting. (My second bottle showed roasted redcurrant, leather, meat and smoky oak on the nose; and a sweet, suave, broad palate without quite the structure and grip of the first sample. But this wine, too, offered compelling sweetness and rated 91 points.) Drink now through 2015.WS 90 (11/1998): A well-crafted red with beautiful structure. Dark ruby-garnet in color, with a lot of violet and earth aromas. Full-bodied, with loads of silky tannins and a long, sweet fruit finish. Has always been outstanding.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now.WA 89 (6/2000): This wine has turned out far better than predicted. The 1982 has become more delineated and put on weight. The 1982 is a juicy, complex, Pomerol-inspired effort with abundant black cherry and black currant fruit presented in a medium to full-bodied, plump, straightforward style. Fleshy, fresh, and lively, it should be consumed over the next 7-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspIWC 93 (8/2002): Full, deep red. Spicy aromas of cassis and rose petal, with a whiff of meat. Then wonderfully penetrating and classy, with bright acidity giving the wine superb clarity and thrust. This has terrific structure. Finishes very long and fine, with excellent grip. By far the finest bottle I've tasted to date of this wine, and one of the real surprises of the tasting. (My second bottle showed roasted redcurrant, leather, meat and smoky oak on the nose; and a sweet, suave, broad palate without quite the structure and grip of the first sample. But this wine, too, offered compelling sweetness and rated 91 points.) Drink now through 2015.WS 90 (11/1998): A well-crafted red with beautiful structure. Dark ruby-garnet in color, with a lot of violet and earth aromas. Full-bodied, with loads of silky tannins and a long, sweet fruit finish. Has always been outstanding.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now.WA 89 (6/2000): This wine has turned out far better than predicted. The 1982 has become more delineated and put on weight. The 1982 is a juicy, complex, Pomerol-inspired effort with abundant black cherry and black currant fruit presented in a medium to full-bodied, plump, straightforward style. Fleshy, fresh, and lively, it should be consumed over the next 7-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspWA 97 (1/1998): One of the superb wines of the vintage, the 1983 Palmer continues to display a saturated purple/garnet color, and an intense perfume of jammy black fruits, smoked meats, flowers, cedar, and Asian spices. Super-concentrated, powerful, and full-bodied, this huge, unctuously textured wine is approaching its plateau of maturity. Because of the high Merlot content it can easily be drunk now, yet promises to last for another 20-25 years. I remain convinced that the 1983 will be the most powerful Palmer since the compelling 1961.WS 90 (10/1994): An outstanding Palmer, firm and solid, with great dark color and fresh plum aromas and flavors with a hint of new wood. Drinkable now, but better after 1996.--The Bordeaux 50.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspWA 97 (1/1998): One of the superb wines of the vintage, the 1983 Palmer continues to display a saturated purple/garnet color, and an intense perfume of jammy black fruits, smoked meats, flowers, cedar, and Asian spices. Super-concentrated, powerful, and full-bodied, this huge, unctuously textured wine is approaching its plateau of maturity. Because of the high Merlot content it can easily be drunk now, yet promises to last for another 20-25 years. I remain convinced that the 1983 will be the most powerful Palmer since the compelling 1961.WS 90 (10/1994): An outstanding Palmer, firm and solid, with great dark color and fresh plum aromas and flavors with a hint of new wood. Drinkable now, but better after 1996.--The Bordeaux 50.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspMB ***[*] (10/1999): At its best. Many notes from glorious, generously endowed in cask to the Grand Awards 'Super-seconds' tasting in New York. Now maturing; rich, ripe (52% Merlot in '89), open, biscuity; sweet, delicious fruit and flavour. Still tannic. Drink now-2015.WA 95 (2/1997): Palmer's 1989 is one of the vintage's great successes. The wine exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, a sweet, jammy nose of black fruits, intermingled with floral scents, licorice, and a touch of truffles. Full-bodied and supple, with low acidity, copious quantities of ripe fruit and glycerin, and a medium to full-bodied, concentrated, harmonious, seamless texture, this is a gorgeous Palmer. It may turn out similar to this estate's brilliant 1962 and 1953. Although approachable, it will improve for another decade, and last for 20-25 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspWA 96 (4/2003): This has turned out to be a prodigious Palmer. The saturated purple color offers up sexy, full-bodied, almost masculine notes of roasted meats, blackberries, and creme de cassis intermixed with notions of toast, smoke, and camphor. Only 50% of the production made it into the 2000, a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Merlot. The wine is opulent, rich, and full-bodied, with tannin that has become sweeter with age. Its best showing yet, most importantly, has been from bottle. This is a great Palmer that should rival the best of recent vintages, which have all been stunning, as this estate continues to go from strength to strength. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspIWC 87-89 (6/2007): (53% cabernet sauvignon, 41% merlot and 6% petit verdot) Bright ruby-red. Very ripe aromas of plum, mulberry, chocolate and animal fur. Sweet and reasonably deep, with good definition and energy. Finishes with fairly serious but nicely buffered tannins and very good length. This still needs some time to come together. WA 87 (2/2009): The 2006 Alter Ego de Palmer, a top-notch second wine, exhibits notes of tar, licorice, herbs, and sweet black cherries in its soft, round, easy to drink style. Enjoy it over the next 5-7 years.JR 16 (1/2010): Very dark with some evolution. Juicy and treacly. Very dry tannins on the finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlterEgodePalmer.aspWA 93+ (5/2011): Fairly deep color. Lovely, graceful nose featuring red fruits and blackberries. Additional notes include violet, tobacco, wood, and mint. Big, tannic, youthful wine on the palate. The wonderful perfectly ripe, fresh fruit flavors come through. Still, the 2006 never really opened up beyond giving us clues of what is to come. Must be cellared for at least five more years – preferably more.WS 93 (5/2009): Coffee, plum and spices on the nose follow through to a full body, with lovely fruit and a soft, silky-textured finish. Very balanced and beautiful, with lots of violet, new wood and richness. Long. Needs time. Best after 2015.IWC 92 (6/2009): Deep red-ruby. Aromas of blackberry, licorice, minerals, flowers and peat, with some chocolatey oak emerging with air. Juicy and silky on the palate, with lovely clarity and inner-mouth perfume to its flavors of black fruits, minerals and iris. Finishes long and firmly structured, with intriguing soil tones and lovely floral lift. Classic medium-bodied claret.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPalmer.aspWA 95 (4/2003): The profound 2000 (a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) continues to put on weight. An opaque purple color is accompanied by stunning aromas of wood smoke, cocoa, black currant and cherry liqueur, coffee, scorched earth, and new oak. A wine of extraordinary concentration, elegance, and complexity, it is one of the finest Pape Clements of the last three decades, but look out ... the 2001 may be even better! Only 55% of the production made it into the final blend. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPape-Clement.aspWA 95 (4/2003): The profound 2000 (a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) continues to put on weight. An opaque purple color is accompanied by stunning aromas of wood smoke, cocoa, black currant and cherry liqueur, coffee, scorched earth, and new oak. A wine of extraordinary concentration, elegance, and complexity, it is one of the finest Pape Clements of the last three decades, but look out ... the 2001 may be even better! Only 55% of the production made it into the final blend. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPape-Clement.aspWA 94 (4/2006): Named after the first French pope, this brilliant 75-acre estate located just south of the beltway surrounding the city of Bordeaux is planted with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Produced from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare, the 2003 is evolved (part of its extraordinary appeal). Complex characteristics of smoke, meat, lead pencil shavings, sweet plums, black cherry liqueur, blackberries, and a hint of espresso are followed by an opulent, full-bodied wine with moderately high but silky tannin, a layered texture, and copious glycerin, which gives it a big, savory, expansive mouthfeel. The finish is long and persistent. This example appears to be on a fast evolutionary track, but it will probably never close down, and should last 15-20 years ... at the minimum.WS 93 (4/2006): Intense aromas of crushed berry, mineral, tobacco and smoke. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and loads of ripe, rich fruit. Goes on for minutes. This is tight and well-structured. Best after 2011. 7,080 cases made.IWC 92 (6/2006): Good deep red. Expressive aromas of currant, plum, tobacco, truffle and smoked meat. Flamboyantly ripe and sexy, with surprising vinosity giving shape to the fleshy flavors of raspberry, smoked meat, tobacco, truffle and minerals. Utterly captivating on the long, mellow finish, throwing off notes of sandalwood, woodsmoke, cocoa and tobacco.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPape-Clement.aspWA 94 (4/2006): Named after the first French pope, this brilliant 75-acre estate located just south of the beltway surrounding the city of Bordeaux is planted with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Produced from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare, the 2003 is evolved (part of its extraordinary appeal). Complex characteristics of smoke, meat, lead pencil shavings, sweet plums, black cherry liqueur, blackberries, and a hint of espresso are followed by an opulent, full-bodied wine with moderately high but silky tannin, a layered texture, and copious glycerin, which gives it a big, savory, expansive mouthfeel. The finish is long and persistent. This example appears to be on a fast evolutionary track, but it will probably never close down, and should last 15-20 years ... at the minimum.WS 93 (4/2006): Intense aromas of crushed berry, mineral, tobacco and smoke. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and loads of ripe, rich fruit. Goes on for minutes. This is tight and well-structured. Best after 2011. 7,080 cases made.IWC 92 (6/2006): Good deep red. Expressive aromas of currant, plum, tobacco, truffle and smoked meat. Flamboyantly ripe and sexy, with surprising vinosity giving shape to the fleshy flavors of raspberry, smoked meat, tobacco, truffle and minerals. Utterly captivating on the long, mellow finish, throwing off notes of sandalwood, woodsmoke, cocoa and tobacco.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPape-Clement.aspWA 94 (4/2006): Named after the first French pope, this brilliant 75-acre estate located just south of the beltway surrounding the city of Bordeaux is planted with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Produced from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare, the 2003 is evolved (part of its extraordinary appeal). Complex characteristics of smoke, meat, lead pencil shavings, sweet plums, black cherry liqueur, blackberries, and a hint of espresso are followed by an opulent, full-bodied wine with moderately high but silky tannin, a layered texture, and copious glycerin, which gives it a big, savory, expansive mouthfeel. The finish is long and persistent. This example appears to be on a fast evolutionary track, but it will probably never close down, and should last 15-20 years ... at the minimum.WS 93 (4/2006): Intense aromas of crushed berry, mineral, tobacco and smoke. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and loads of ripe, rich fruit. Goes on for minutes. This is tight and well-structured. Best after 2011. 7,080 cases made.IWC 92 (6/2006): Good deep red. Expressive aromas of currant, plum, tobacco, truffle and smoked meat. Flamboyantly ripe and sexy, with surprising vinosity giving shape to the fleshy flavors of raspberry, smoked meat, tobacco, truffle and minerals. Utterly captivating on the long, mellow finish, throwing off notes of sandalwood, woodsmoke, cocoa and tobacco.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPape-Clement.aspWA 95 (2/2009): The dense purple-colored 2006 boasts an extraordinary perfume of lead pencil shavings, creme de cassis, burning embers, and a sensation that can only be described as like walking through a damp forest on a hot, humid day. Full-bodied, extraordinarily textured, and multidimensional with an amazingly long finish of nearly 60 seconds, this blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot from a 75-acre vineyard is a compelling wine that is one of the stars of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.IWC 93 (6/2009): Full ruby-red. Superripe, highly complex aromas of plum, cocoa powder, tobacco and warm stones. Big, plush and chewy, with compelling sweetness and generosity of texture to the flavors of plum, minerals, tobacco and woodsmoke. Has the sheer stuffing to support the serious, building but noble tannins. Finishes with superb palate-staining persistence. This may well shut down in bottle, and should age well for the next two decades, but it's a knockout right now.WS 91 (3/2009): Dark in color. Blackberry, coffee and milk chocolate aromas follow through to a full body, with lots of chewy tannins, ripe fruit and polished wood. This needs time to come together, but it's very powerful. Best after 2014.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPape-Clement.aspWA 96 (4/2008): An outstanding combination of 55% Sauvignon Blanc and 45% Semillon, this full-bodied, dry white boasts copious quantities of lemon grass, honeysuckle, and apple notes backed up by hints of wood, quince, and nectarines. Concentrated, with admirable acidity, richness, and a more forward style than its neighbors, Laville Haut-Brion and Haut-Brion, this beauty can be enjoyed now and over the next 10-15 years.WS 95 (3/2008): Offers lemon peel, with hints of lime and cut wood. Fennel even. Full-bodied, with wonderful fruit and vanilla, cream, apple tart and honey flavors. Unfolds on the palate. Needs lots of age, but who can wait? Best after 2010. 750 cases made.IWC 92 (6/2007): Bright, pale yellow. Complex nose offers lemon drop, fresh herbs, flowers and resiny oak. Very rich and full in the mouth, and more complex than the young 2006 despite the recent bottling. Fresh flavors of candied ginger, flowers and lemon drop showcase the richness and depth-as well as the sappy character-of this vintage. Impressively long on the aftertaste. A great showing.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPape-Clement.aspWA 100 (4/2003): Give Gerard Perse credit. People thought his numerous assurances that 2000 was the greatest Pavie ever produced were premature as well as arrogant. However, after tasting this extraordinary blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon (made from low yields of 28-30 hectoliters per hectare) six separate times in 2003, it is unquestionably one of the most monumental wines Bordeaux has ever produced. Bottled in March, 2003, about nine months later than other 2000s, the color is an opaque purple, and the bouquet offers up notes of liquid minerals, blackberries, cherries, and cassis intermixed with spice box, cedar, and white flowers. On the palate, it exhibits a massive display of richness and extract, yet with pinpoint delineation and vibrancy as well as a 60+ second finish, this is the kind of phenomenal wine that Perse's critics were afraid he might produce - a no-compromise, immortal wonder that represents the essence of one of Bordeaux's greatest terroirs. Life is too short not to own and consume the 2000 Pavie. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPavie.aspWA 98+ (4/2006): This 92-acre vineyard, which enjoys an impeccable southern orientation, is composed of limestone on the upper slopes, clay and limestone in the middle, and sand and clay at the base. Proprietor Gerard Perse, who has done a brilliant job since acquiring the estate in 1998, continues to push the envelope of quality to higher and higher heights. Planted with 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the grapes receive kid glove treatment with hand-harvesting into small plastic lugs, two triage tables, and aging for 28 months in 100% new oak that is purchased in advance, then air-dried and coopered according to Perse’s specifications. In short, the man is a perfectionist, and the quality of all the estates he owns has soared dramatically.WS 96 (7/2006): Dark purple. Shows intense aromas of raisin, coffee and treacle tart. Very, very ripe. Full-bodied, superrich and velvety. This is so layered and powerful. Blockbuster. Best after 2008. 7,500 cases made.IWC 92+ (6/2006): Impressive full medium ruby color. Quite locked up on the nose following the February bottling; hinted at currant, smoked meat and roasted nuts as it opened in the glass. Extremely powerful but a bit chunky today, conveying an impression of extraordinary solidity. One senses but does not taste the minerals and primary berry fruit. But this painfully closed wine already offers uncanny sweetness. The major mouthful of tannins calls for at least six to eight years of cellaring. A classic extreme 2003 that is currently in a sullen stage. This is sure to controversial-at least until it begins to recover from the bottling. My score may prove to be conservative, but today it's the dried fruit character that dominates.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPavie.aspWS 100 (6/2008): I love the purity of fruit in this wine, with perfectly ripe blackberry, blueberry and raspberry on the nose. Complex and full-bodied, with hints of new oak and wonderfully polished tannins that caress the palate. Long, long finish. This is not the blockbuster it was from barrel, but rather a complete, balanced and gorgeous red. Best after 2015. 7,100 cases made.WA 98+ (4/2008): Now that the 2005 Pavie is in the bottle, I would place it, qualitatively, a notch below the prodigious 2000, and a few notches above the blockbuster 2003. There are 7,000 cases of this 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Disregarding the blatant jealousy of his success as well as his “outsider” status, proprietor Gerard Perse has pushed the envelope of quality, fashioning first-growth quality wines from one of Bordeaux’s finest terroirs. In St.-Emilion, only Ausone can be considered to have greater potential in terms of micro-climate and terroir. Pavie’s 2005 exhibits a thick-looking purple color to the rim as well as an exquisite perfume of blueberry and blackberry liqueur, unsmoked cigar tobacco, crushed rocks, damp earth, and hints of truffles and incense. The vineyard’s limestone soils have provided massive concentration, a laser-like precision, fresh, zesty acidity, and massive tannin. Despite the wine’s enormous concentration and intensity, there is a lightness to its style. As Perse has made clear, he is trying to produce modern day versions of such great vintages as 1921, 1929, 1945, and 1947, wines that lasted 50 or more years. I do not understand why Perse receives so much criticism. In the blind tastings of each new vintage conducted by the Grand Jury European, Pavie usually wins against 100 or so other great Bordeaux. As they say, the truth is irrefutable - this is one of the world’s most outstanding wines, and the 2005 Pavie should take its place among the greatest achievements of Bordeaux in the last 50 years. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060. IWC 96 (6/2008): Saturated, deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines blackberry, minerals, crushed rock, truffle, vanillin oak and flowers; showing none of the porty quality of the sample I tried last year. A hugely concentrated essence of a wine, offering an incredible combination of sweetness, vibrancy and precision of fruit, thanks to strong acidity and powerful underlying minerality. The chewy tannins are totally buffered by the wine's material on the explosive back end. This wine has it all! Compared to the Pavie-Decesse, which essentially comes from a single block of old vines on limestone, this wine has clearly benefited by being an assemblage of soil types, with fruit from the foot of the slope contributing texture and richness. The 2005 Pavie should easily last for three or four decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPavie.aspWS 100 (6/2008): I love the purity of fruit in this wine, with perfectly ripe blackberry, blueberry and raspberry on the nose. Complex and full-bodied, with hints of new oak and wonderfully polished tannins that caress the palate. Long, long finish. This is not the blockbuster it was from barrel, but rather a complete, balanced and gorgeous red. Best after 2015. 7,100 cases made.WA 98+ (4/2008): Now that the 2005 Pavie is in the bottle, I would place it, qualitatively, a notch below the prodigious 2000, and a few notches above the blockbuster 2003. There are 7,000 cases of this 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Disregarding the blatant jealousy of his success as well as his “outsider” status, proprietor Gerard Perse has pushed the envelope of quality, fashioning first-growth quality wines from one of Bordeaux’s finest terroirs. In St.-Emilion, only Ausone can be considered to have greater potential in terms of micro-climate and terroir. Pavie’s 2005 exhibits a thick-looking purple color to the rim as well as an exquisite perfume of blueberry and blackberry liqueur, unsmoked cigar tobacco, crushed rocks, damp earth, and hints of truffles and incense. The vineyard’s limestone soils have provided massive concentration, a laser-like precision, fresh, zesty acidity, and massive tannin. Despite the wine’s enormous concentration and intensity, there is a lightness to its style. As Perse has made clear, he is trying to produce modern day versions of such great vintages as 1921, 1929, 1945, and 1947, wines that lasted 50 or more years. I do not understand why Perse receives so much criticism. In the blind tastings of each new vintage conducted by the Grand Jury European, Pavie usually wins against 100 or so other great Bordeaux. As they say, the truth is irrefutable - this is one of the world’s most outstanding wines, and the 2005 Pavie should take its place among the greatest achievements of Bordeaux in the last 50 years. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060. IWC 96 (6/2008): Saturated, deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines blackberry, minerals, crushed rock, truffle, vanillin oak and flowers; showing none of the porty quality of the sample I tried last year. A hugely concentrated essence of a wine, offering an incredible combination of sweetness, vibrancy and precision of fruit, thanks to strong acidity and powerful underlying minerality. The chewy tannins are totally buffered by the wine's material on the explosive back end. This wine has it all! Compared to the Pavie-Decesse, which essentially comes from a single block of old vines on limestone, this wine has clearly benefited by being an assemblage of soil types, with fruit from the foot of the slope contributing texture and richness. The 2005 Pavie should easily last for three or four decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPavie.aspWA 95 (4/2001): Nearly exaggerated levels of intensity, extract, and richness are apparent in this opaque blue/purple-colored wine. Sumptuous aromas of blueberries, blackberries, and cherries combine with smoke, licorice, vanillin, and truffles to create a compelling aromatic explosion. The wine is fabulously dense, full-bodied, and layered, with multiple dimensions, gorgeous purity, and superbly integrated acidity as well as tannin. One of the most concentrated wines of the vintage, it possesses immense potential, but patience is required. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPavieMacquin.aspWA 98 (4/2008): It appears consumers can’t go wrong with any 2005 with the word “Pavie” in its name. This outstanding terroir, elevated to Premier Grand Cru Classe status in St.-Emilion’s reclassification, is run with impeccable attention to detail by Nicolas Thienpont, who is assisted by winemaking guru, Stephane Derenoncourt. The 2005 Pavie Macquin may turn out to be this duo’s finest wine to date. This is a moderately large vineyard (37 acres) for the area, and the blend tends to be 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. A black/purple color is accompanied by aromas of charcoal, burning embers, crushed rocks, sweet, pure, blueberries and blackberries, chocolaty creme de cassis, and licorice. It possesses massive concentration, phenomenal levels of tannin, and good acidity, but it is even more backward than either Pavie or Pavie Decesse. A modern day elixir that should prove to be monumental in 15-20 years, it will last for 40+ years.WS 96 (3/2008): Black in color. Aromas of crushed berry, chocolate and licorice follow through to a full body, with a chewy, velvety palate of ripe tannins. Long and very flavorful. A real mouthful. Best after 2015. 4,165 cases made.IWC 95 (6/2008): Bright ruby-red. Superripe, perfumed nose dominated by griotte cherry, raspberry and cocoa. Lush, smooth and impressively concentrated, with enough acidity and minerality to leaven the wine's almost port-like ripeness (the pH here, always low, is barely 3.55 in 2005, according to Nicolas Thienpont). Very deep flavors of sweet cherry and dark berries carry through on the mounting, palate-saturating finish. A massive example of Pavie-Macquin whose thick coat of baby fat is currently making the wine hard to view. This one is going to require a minimum of a decade of patience.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPavieMacquin.aspWA 89 (2/1998): This estate's second wine, the 1995 Pavillon du Chateau Margaux, may turn out to be one of the most delicious examples the property has made. The wine is forward, sexy, round, and generous, with gobs of black fruit and a subtle dosage of new oak. It should drink well for 10-15 years.WS 89 (12/2007): Beautiful aromas of blackberry and spice, with a hint of licorice. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a refined finish. Mushroom and berry character. Second wine of Margaux.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PavillonRougeduChateauMargaux.aspWA 96 (4/2003): There are 500 or so cases of this thrilling 2000 that emerges from a south-facing slope of the Faugeres vineyard. In less than three years, the price has caught up with the quality. A prodigious wine as well as one of the superstars of the vintage, the spectacular 2000 represents the essence of Bordeaux with an inky black/purple color, profound richness, and massive concentration. The provocative bouquet of smoke, liquified minerals, cocoa, blackberries, blueberries, and vanilla is accompanied by a multiple-tiered wine with sweet tannin and dry vintage port-like richness. It is full-bodied, yet remarkably well-delineated as well as light on its feet. With high tannin and extract as well as a whoppingly long finish, it will easily rival, possibly surpass the other-worldly 1998. I kept a bottle open eight days without any evidence of oxidation. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020.WS 92 (3/2003): This jumps out of the glass, with berry, Indian spices and raspberry character on the nose. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a caressing texture. Slightly short on the finish. A bit too much wood, but impressive. Best after 2008. 1,665 cases made.IWC 90-91 (6/2002): Impressive saturated ruby. Roasted black cherry, dark chocolate, mocha and espresso on the nose. Lush and silky on the palate, with intense, nicely delineated dark berry and torrefaction flavors. Impressively concentrated and rich. Dense, vinous and solidly structured wine, with plenty of extract to support the firm tannins. Finishes with excellent length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPebyFaugeres.aspWS 91 (3/2005): Wonderful aromas of Indian spices with hints of vanilla and blackberries. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and lots of length. All in finesse and compacted fruit. Pure Merlot. Much better than from barrel. Very well done. Best after 2008. 665 cases made. IWC 89 (6/2003): Ruby-red. Bright aromas of black raspberry, kirsch , dark chocolate and violet. Sweet, concentrated and quite firm, with high-toned dark fruit flavors. This has good stuffing for the vintage, as well as a serious structure for mid-term aging in bottle.WA 87-88 (4/2005): The 2002 Peby-Faugeres has been a consistently perplexing wine to taste. The wood continues to dominate this tannic, muscular, virile St.-Emilion. It lacks the charm and overall balance of its less expensive sibling, Chateau Faugeres. Perhaps it will come together with time, but 2002 would not have been the vintage to push extraction or utilize tremendous amounts of new oak, which seems to have given this wine a disjointed, awkward taste and texture. Judgment reserved.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPebyFaugeres.aspWS 91 (3/2005): Wonderful aromas of Indian spices with hints of vanilla and blackberries. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and lots of length. All in finesse and compacted fruit. Pure Merlot. Much better than from barrel. Very well done. Best after 2008. 665 cases made. IWC 89 (6/2003): Ruby-red. Bright aromas of black raspberry, kirsch , dark chocolate and violet. Sweet, concentrated and quite firm, with high-toned dark fruit flavors. This has good stuffing for the vintage, as well as a serious structure for mid-term aging in bottle.WA 87-88 (4/2005): The 2002 Peby-Faugeres has been a consistently perplexing wine to taste. The wood continues to dominate this tannic, muscular, virile St.-Emilion. It lacks the charm and overall balance of its less expensive sibling, Chateau Faugeres. Perhaps it will come together with time, but 2002 would not have been the vintage to push extraction or utilize tremendous amounts of new oak, which seems to have given this wine a disjointed, awkward taste and texture. Judgment reserved.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPebyFaugeres.aspWA 93 (4/2006): A luxury cuvee culled from the large Faugeres vineyard, Peby-Faugeres is a nearly 100% Merlot made from 45-year-old vines planted in limestone soils. The wine’s upbringing is similar to that of a well-crafted Burgundy, with malolactic in barrel, aging on its lees, and no clarification at bottling. It has been a huge success since it debuted in 1998. Even better from bottle than it was from cask, the intense, deep purple-hued 2003 offers a big, sweet nose of blackberries, creme de cassis, creosote, coffee, and flowers. Full-bodied and opulent with low acidity, huge glycerin and flavor density, and a spectacularly long, flamboyant finish, this exotic, intense St.-Emilion reflects this interesting vintage. Anticipated maturity: now-2020+.WS 93 (3/2006): Crushed plum, berry and cherry on the nose. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and velvety tannins. Goes on for minutes. Very 2003. Very Port-like, but I love it. Best after 2009. 1,330 cases made.IWC 87-90 (6/2004): Full medium ruby. Aromas of roasted currant, espresso and nutty oak, along with an exotic floral note. Lush, full and quite sweet in the mouth, with notes of chocolate and mint. My sample was a bit low in SO2, so it's hard to know just how much backbone this has beneath its flesh. The tannins are substantial, though.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPebyFaugeres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPetitVillage.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPeybonhommeLesTours.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPeybonhommeLesTours.aspMB *** (11/1998): Chateau bottled, Nicolas label: fragrant, good flavour, length. Some astringency but not enought to spoil it's charm.WS 80 (11/1997): More like an old Burgundy, with nutlike, leather, fruit and brown sugar character. Hints of earth and oranges. Medium-bodied.--Pichon-Lalande vertical.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspJR 16.5 (12/2009): Slightly bricky rim but garnet core. Fresh and cedary but less fragrant than the 1996. A little sappy and nutty. Touch of undergrowth on the nose and comes through more on the palate. Dry, fine tannins, fully resolved and sweet. Some sweetness of undergrowth and red fruit. Just enough fruit to be in balance now but I wouldn't keep it much longer. Good for current drinking. Opens up to liquorice and cigar box and then some pure cassis comes as a surprise with a floral edge on the palate. Nice freshness but on the lighter side.WA 89 (2/1994): Pichon-Lalande's 1991 is among only a handful of 1991s worthy of being the "wine of the vintage." Only 30% of the harvest went into the final wine, resulting in a deeper-colored, richer, more concentrated, and complex wine than the 1990, which was atypically light - even for the elegant Pichon-Lalande style. The 1991, which possesses plenty of tannin, displays an opaque, deep ruby/purple color, and a sweet nose of chocolate, cedar, and ripe, plummy, blackcurrant fruit. Round, medium to full-bodied, and opulent (atypical for a 1991), this wine finishes with considerable length and authority. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. The 1991 Pichon-Lalande is one of the stars of the vintage!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWS 83 (11/1997): Rather overtly herbal and oaky, but shows some good plum and earth character. Medium-bodied, with medium tannins and a decent finish. Drink up.--Pichon-Lalande vertical.WA 79 (12/1994): The 1992 is the most disappointing wine made at this estate in nearly a decade. The wine reveals medium ruby color, a disjointed, awkward personality with compact, attenuated flavors, a stewed, tannic character, and harsh tannin in the short finish. The color is sound, but there is no charm or ripe fruit, resulting in a wine that is all structure, tannin, and alcohol. Three tastings after bottling, with nearly identical notes to those from cask tastings, confirm this wine's performance.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWS 83 (11/1997): Rather overtly herbal and oaky, but shows some good plum and earth character. Medium-bodied, with medium tannins and a decent finish. Drink up.--Pichon-Lalande vertical.WA 79 (12/1994): The 1992 is the most disappointing wine made at this estate in nearly a decade. The wine reveals medium ruby color, a disjointed, awkward personality with compact, attenuated flavors, a stewed, tannic character, and harsh tannin in the short finish. The color is sound, but there is no charm or ripe fruit, resulting in a wine that is all structure, tannin, and alcohol. Three tastings after bottling, with nearly identical notes to those from cask tastings, confirm this wine's performance.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWA 97 (4/2003): The 2000 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is spectacular, and certainly a noteworthy rival to the 1996, 1995, and even the extraordinary 1982. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, this effort has a dense saturated purple color, a singular/distinctive yet possibly controversial aromatic smorgasbord existing of creme de cassis, vanilla, and violets, but also tapenade and tree bark. No doubt the Petit Verdot has imparted a certain almost olive-like component to the wine's aromatic profile. In the mouth, it is a wine of extraordinary density, opulence, great presence, and richness. As the 2000 sits in the glass, notes of lavender and melted licorice emerge along with the distinctive tapenade aromas interwoven with creme de cassis, espresso roast, and cedar. The wine is full-bodied, with extraordinary purity and a tremendous texture. I suspect this wine will be relatively approachable young but evolve effortlessly. This is a dramatic, almost flamboyant style that is not classic Pauillac in one sense, but a classic wine. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWA 97 (4/2003): The 2000 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is spectacular, and certainly a noteworthy rival to the 1996, 1995, and even the extraordinary 1982. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, this effort has a dense saturated purple color, a singular/distinctive yet possibly controversial aromatic smorgasbord existing of creme de cassis, vanilla, and violets, but also tapenade and tree bark. No doubt the Petit Verdot has imparted a certain almost olive-like component to the wine's aromatic profile. In the mouth, it is a wine of extraordinary density, opulence, great presence, and richness. As the 2000 sits in the glass, notes of lavender and melted licorice emerge along with the distinctive tapenade aromas interwoven with creme de cassis, espresso roast, and cedar. The wine is full-bodied, with extraordinary purity and a tremendous texture. I suspect this wine will be relatively approachable young but evolve effortlessly. This is a dramatic, almost flamboyant style that is not classic Pauillac in one sense, but a classic wine. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWA 93 (6/2004): A distinctive bouquet of violets, soy, pepper, blackberries, cassis, and tree bark gives this 2001 a singular style. This dense ruby/purple-colored blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, and a whopping 14% Petit Verdot exhibits plenty of structure, wonderful sweetness, a closed style, but a rich, textured, persistent character. The unusually large percentage of Petit Verdot gives the wine more structure and less initial charm. This beauty needs some time in the cellar. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2018.IWC 92 (6/2004): Red-ruby. Enticing aromas of plum, woodsmoke and Cuban tobacco. Lush, silky and suave, with intriguing hints of mocha and cedar. A wonderfully sweet, impeccably balanced claret without any rough edges. Finishes long and firmly tannic.WS 92 (3/2004): Plenty of tobacco, berry and cedar aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, with sweet fruit and refined tannins. Long and ripe fruit on the finish. Not quite as exciting as from barrel. Best after 2007.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWA 92 (6/2007): The 2004 Pichon Lalande is a strong effort for the vintage (much better than their underwhelming and much more expensive 2005). A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as scents of cocoa, espresso roast, black cherries, and cassis. Medium to full-bodied, opulent, and fleshy, this classic wine cuts a stylistic persona somewhere between the 1995 and 1996. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades. Also tasted: 2004 Reserve de la Comtesse (88; $35.00)IWC 91-92 (6/2006): Good red-ruby color. Raspberry, cherry, smoke, earth and pepper on the expressive nose. Supple and voluptuous but firm, with captivating Pauillac soil tones. Not especially sweet but fat and smooth, with a much deeper pitch than the 2005. Finishes with ripe tannins and excellent breadth and length. This is developing very nicely and today seems as strong as the young '05.WS 90 (3/2007): Aromas of currant, flowers and berries follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a fruity finish. Round and very caressing. Best after 2010. 20,830 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWS 93 (3/2008): Beautiful currant, berry and licorice aromas follow through to a full body, with tar and berry character, fine tannins and a long finish. I was expecting a little more from this, but it's still outstanding. Best after 2013.IWC 90 (6/2008): Good full red-ruby. Very ripe, musky aromas of black plum, currant, menthol, dark chocolate, mocha and meat; less pristine than the 2006 but rather youthfully subdued today. Then lush and fat but not overly sweet in the mouth, with a nice balance between ripe fruit and harmonious acidity. A full, broad wine that builds slowly and lingers on the back end, which features substantial but ripe, round tannins. Can't quite match the young 2006 for vitality, but this is distinctly more exotic, in the style of the year.WA 86 (4/2008): The disappointing 2005 Pichon Lalande reveals a much lighter style than one expects from this estate. However, the new owners, the Louis Roederer/Deutz champagne firm, have recently brought in Hubert de Bouard (from St.-Emilion) as a consultant, and the 2006 appears to be a dramatic improvement over the 2005. For all its greatness, Pichon Lalande previously experienced hiccups in superb vintages, 1990 being a prime example. While good, in the context of the vintage, the 2005 is unimpressive. A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this deep ruby-colored effort exhibits a slightly herbaceous nose revealing hints of roasted coffee, cedar wood, cherries, and black currants. Good acidity and elevated tannins give the wine a streamlined, medium-bodied, fresh taste. Anticipated maturity: now-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-LonguevilleLalande.aspWS 74 (9/1988): No tasting note given.WA 64 (1/1998): A very medicinal, unusual nose suggesting burnt coffee is off-putting. Chaptalized, sweet, unstructured flavors dissipate and fade in the glass. This is a soft, uncharacteristic, and disjointed 1975. Anticipated maturity: Now-probably in serious decline. Last tasted, 8/90.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-Longueville,Baron.aspWA 96 (4/2003): A spectacular effort, this is a profound Pichon Baron and clearly my favorite vintage of this wine since the 1989 and 1990. An inky purple color offers up notes of barbecue spices intermixed with new saddle leather, creme de cassis, melted licorice, creosote, and a hint of vanilla. The wine is full-bodied, tremendously concentrated, with sweet tannin and a seamless finish that goes on for close to one minute. This wine has great purity, tremendous texture, and fabulous upside potential. This is a prodigious 2000! Anticipated maturity: 2008-2028.IWC 94 (6/2003): Good full red-ruby. Complex nose combines plum, mocha, minerals, tobacco and burnished oak. A bit tight on entry, then expands and explodes toward the back, showing dense, insinuating flavors of black fruits and licorice. Chewy, sharply delineated Pichon-Baron with excellent underlying backbone and broad, palate-coating tannins. An outstanding vintage for this estate. WS 93 (3/2003): Fantastic aromas of currants, berries and hints of minerals. Cool and sleek. Full-bodied, with a lovely underbelly of ripe fruit and medium, silky tannins. Best Pichon Baron I have tasted since 1990. Best after 2010.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-Longueville,Baron.aspWA 93 (6/2004): A very successful effort for this vintage in the Medoc, this deep ruby/purple-colored Pauillac exhibits class/nobility/breed along with black currant liqueur, licorice, and incense notes. Sweet, expansive, fleshy, and medium to full-bodied, with good structure, ripe tannin, and a long, 30-35 second finish, it can be drunk now, but will be even better in 2-3 years; it will last for 12-15 years. I had this wine three separate times out of bottle, and it is performing significantly better than it did from cask.IWC 92 (6/2004): Medium red-ruby. Complex nose melds currant, cedar, minerals and tobacco. Suave entry, then sweet, dense and supple, with harmonious acids giving lift to the wine's flavors. At once full and juicy. Finishes with very fine tannins and excellent length. WS 90 (3/2004): Dark-colored, with floral and lanolin aromas with hints of fruit. Full-bodied, with chunky tannins and a long finish. A bit short and austere. Needs bottle age to show its full potential. Best after 2007.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPichon-Longueville,Baron.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPicque-Caillou.aspWS 90 (5/2006): Intense aromas of crushed berry, smoke and toasted oak. Full-bodied and very chewy, with a vanilla, coffee and berry aftertaste. Loads here. Best after 2009. 15,830 cases made. WA 88 (4/2006): A good value from St.-Emilion, this well-run estate has turned out a dense, muscular, masculine-styled 2003 with a dark ruby/purple color, and up-front, ripe black cherry fruit intermixed with hints of black currants, earth, and incense. Plush, fleshy, long, and low in acidity, it should be consumed over the next 7-10 years. As always, this is a very sexy wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPipeau.aspWA 93 (1/1997): One of the finest as well as longest-lived wines of the vintage, this opaque purple-colored 1994 needs 7-10 years of cellaring. This rich, impressive, full-bodied wine represents the finest Pontet-Canet produced since the 1961. This full-bodied, purely made wine is crammed with black currant fruit, as well as forbiddingly tannic and backward. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPontetCanet.aspWA 83 (1/1998): A typical 1975, tough, hard, and backward, the Prieure has a leathery, ripe fragrance. Full bodied and astringent with hard, tannic flavors, this wine is just beginning to show signs of shedding its tannins and revealing some ripe, fleshy fruit. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 11/84.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChPrieureLichine.aspWA 94 (4/2001): An elegant as well as powerful effort, this dense ruby/purple-colored 1998 reveals notes of plums, black raspberries, vanillin, minerals, licorice, and spice. Exceptionally rich with an outstanding texture, this medium to full-bodied wine possesses a distinctive, individualistic style, largely because of its floral, blueberry fruit flavors. Although accessible, it will age for two decades. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2020._x000D__x000D_WS 91 (1/2001): Subtle yet rich. Decadent aromas of berry, chocolate and meat follow through to a full- to medium-bodied wine with fine tannins and a long finish. Best after 2006. 2,500 cases made._x000D_http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChQuinaultlEnclos.aspWA 89 (4/1995): The 1990 is the least impressive of the 1988, 1989 and 1990 vintages, but it is nevertheless an outstanding wine. It reveals plenty of honeyed richness, a full-blown, heavyweight style, and considerable spice. While there is a slight lack of acidity, it is a huge, full-bodied wine for drinking over the next 15 or so years. At one time, Rabaud-Promis was among the most notorious underachievers of Barsac/Sauternes. That all changed in 1986. The 1988, 1989 and 1990 vintages offer formidable evidence that Rabaud-Promis is exhibiting more consistency in quality than many of its more renowned neighbors.IWC 89 (8/1998): Very reticent nose exudes a delicate floral, appley quality. Quite fresh in the mouth, with good cut and flavor intensity. Flavor of apple and honey. Nicely balanced but not terribly rich or complex. Fresh, moderately sweet aftertaste.WS 88 (4/1995): Fresh and clean, quite light in this company but focused, revealing lively hay, earth, mineral and lemon flavors that offer good length but not much opulence. Try in 1997.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChRabaudPromis.aspWA 93 (2/1997): I hope I am not too optimistic about the potential of the 1990 Rausan-Segla as it is one wine that requires a significant investment in patience. It reveals an opaque purple color, but the wine is broodingly backward, with a formidable tannin level. Closer examination, however, reveals large quantities of sweet, earthy, cassis fruit, full body, and a leathery toughness. The wine is pure, with huge flavor extraction, as well as mouthsearing tannin. In previous tastings it displayed more openness and less aggressiveness. All the component parts appear to be present, but this massive wine has gone into a dormant state. Give it 7-8 more years of bottle age; it may be a 30-year wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChRauzan-Segla.aspWS 92 (7/2006): Aromas of apple tart, cream and honey follow through to a full-bodied palate, with lots of sweetness and a dried pineapple, vanilla and honey aftertaste. Outstanding intensity. Best after 2008. 7,500 cases made.IWC 92+ (8/2005): Medium yellow-gold. Young, pure and rather restrained on the nose, with the wine's oak component currently dominating exotic fruits, hazelnut and honey. Quite opulent on the attack, then large-scaled and solidly structured in the middle palate, withflavors of apricot, honey and clove. Big but not heavy, and not yet showing the flavor interest of the 2003. But this is quite closed today. Finishes thick, strong and long, with notes of vanilla, spices and nuts.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChRieussec.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChRouget.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DomSainte-Anne.aspWA 95 (6/2004): This may be the biggest, richest, most intensely concentrated wine of the vintage in St.-Emilion (much like it was in 2000). Sadly, there are only 900 cases of this unfined/unfiltered 85% Merlot / 15% Cabernet Sauvignon blend (made from yields of 23 hectoliters per hectare), most of which comes from 60-80-year old vines. Made in a huge, nectar of the vine-like style, it is incredibly pure and rich, but is very uncompromising. It appears to be a modern day version of a wine made in the 1800s. Enormously concentrated, massive on the palate, with excruciatingly high levels of tannin, but also high levels of extract, it is meant for patient connoisseurs. It will have a fascinating evolution, lasting 30-40 years, but being conservative, I will just say drink it between 2010-2025. In all respects, this admirable effort is a throwback to days long gone.IWC 89 (6/2004): Good medium ruby. High-toned, liqueur-like aromas of raspberry and dark chocolate. Fat and sweet, with superripe flavors similar to the aromas. Lifted by an enticing floral perfume. Finishes with big but sweet tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosSarpe.aspWA 90 (2/1998): This wine is already showing exceptionally well, even though it is not close to its plateau of maturity. The deep ruby/purple color is followed by scents of roasted herbs intermixed with sweet black currant fruit, truffles, vanillin, and minerals. Lush, with ripe cassis fruit on the attack, outstanding balance, medium body, and layers of intensity, this is an elegant, graceful, smoothly textured, beautifully made Bordeaux. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2018.WS 90 (12/2007): Aromas of blackberries, with hints of cedar and fresh mushrooms. Full-bodied, with silky, firm tannins and a medium finish. Needs time still.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2008. 9,100 cases made.IWC 90 (6/1998): Very good deep red. Warm, inviting aromas of plums, hot bricks, leather and spice. Lush and expansive in the mouth, with smoke and plum flavors. Subtle flavor really expands on the finish. Tannins are quite suave. A lovely drink.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSmithHautLafitte.aspWA 90 (6/2000): Bright ruby/purple, with no lightening at the edge, this 1982 offers up aromas of pure, sweet, roasted nuts, along with mineral-laced black currants. Medium to full-bodied and structured, with high tannin and vibrant youthfulness, this wine has not evolved as much as I expected. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2020.WS 89 (11/1998): A seriously good wine in this category, but not as good as I remember. Dark red color, with an inky center. Blackberry and earth aromas. Full-bodied and rich, with berry flavors and a silky finish.--1982 Bordeaux horizontal. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWA 92 (2/1997): Once again this estate revealed its excellent quality/price ratio. As one taster so appropriately stated after learning the identity of both the 1989 and 1990 Sociando-Mallets, "I'd rather have the '89 or '90 Sociando-Mallet than the '89 Margaux or '90 Mouton in my cellar." Both wines showed surprisingly well, performing at second or third-growth levels. The 1990 appears to be the finest Sociando-Mallet since the sensational 1982. The wine possesses an opaque purple color, and a tight but promising nose of thick, cassis, blackcurrant fruit, subtle roasted herbs, smoke, licorice, and minerals. Powerful, super-concentrated, and backward, with layers of flavor and high tannin, this striking wine should evolve for 2-3 decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWS 91 (1/1998): A real fruit-bomb, with expressive aromas of currants, blackberries and vanilla. Full-bodied and chunky, with masses of fruit and well-knit tannins. Best after 2002.WA 90 (2/1998): This accessible, yet tannic example of Sociando-Mallet possesses a deep ruby/purple color, and excellent aromatics consisting of jammy black cherries, blackberries, and cassis, as well as subtle notes of minerals, earth, and new oak. This is a deep, long, muscular, tannic wine that is structurally similar to the 1996. Patience will be required from purchasers of this high class wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWS 91 (1/1998): A real fruit-bomb, with expressive aromas of currants, blackberries and vanilla. Full-bodied and chunky, with masses of fruit and well-knit tannins. Best after 2002.WA 90 (2/1998): This accessible, yet tannic example of Sociando-Mallet possesses a deep ruby/purple color, and excellent aromatics consisting of jammy black cherries, blackberries, and cassis, as well as subtle notes of minerals, earth, and new oak. This is a deep, long, muscular, tannic wine that is structurally similar to the 1996. Patience will be required from purchasers of this high class wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWA 93 (4/2003): A breathtakingly beautiful Sociando-Mallet with a dense ruby/purple color and a bouquet of ink, mineral, graphite, vanilla, and creme de cassis, the 2000 boasts superb concentration, great definition and intensity, ripe tannin, and a long finish of more than 40 seconds. This is top-flight, classified growth-quality stuff. So what's new? This continues to be an over-achieving estate! It will be long-lived. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2028.IWC 93 (6/2003): Bright ruby-red. Rich, perfumed aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, minerals and cocoa powder. Big, dense, lush and deep, but with lovely sappy vinosity; this expands impressively to fill the mouth. Finishes very long, with suave, broad tannins and a note of black olive. A gloriously successful vintage for Sociando-Mallet, offering a full range of cabernet aromatics.WS 91 (3/2003): Very smoky, with charcoal, almost lamblike aromas. Full-bodied, chewy and very rich, with a thick and velvety finish. Stylish and decadent young wine. Best after 2007. 26,040 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWA 93 (4/2003): A breathtakingly beautiful Sociando-Mallet with a dense ruby/purple color and a bouquet of ink, mineral, graphite, vanilla, and creme de cassis, the 2000 boasts superb concentration, great definition and intensity, ripe tannin, and a long finish of more than 40 seconds. This is top-flight, classified growth-quality stuff. So what's new? This continues to be an over-achieving estate! It will be long-lived. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2028.IWC 93 (6/2003): Bright ruby-red. Rich, perfumed aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, minerals and cocoa powder. Big, dense, lush and deep, but with lovely sappy vinosity; this expands impressively to fill the mouth. Finishes very long, with suave, broad tannins and a note of black olive. A gloriously successful vintage for Sociando-Mallet, offering a full range of cabernet aromatics.WS 91 (3/2003): Very smoky, with charcoal, almost lamblike aromas. Full-bodied, chewy and very rich, with a thick and velvety finish. Stylish and decadent young wine. Best after 2007. 26,040 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWA 93 (6/2004): This Haut-Medoc performed spectacularly on the two occasions I tasted it from bottle, even eclipsing its impressive showing from cask. It looks to be every bit as powerful as the 2000 ... not an easy achievement. A fabulous sleeper of the vintage, it tastes more like a first-growth than an unclassified offering. Its inky/blue/purple color is accompanied by a spectacular bouquet of lead pencil shavings, ink, blackberries, cedar, and earth. Full-bodied, with terrific texture, fabulous concentration, and moderately high tannin, this massive, atypical 2001 must be tasted to be believed. A brilliant achievement! Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWA 93 (6/2004): This Haut-Medoc performed spectacularly on the two occasions I tasted it from bottle, even eclipsing its impressive showing from cask. It looks to be every bit as powerful as the 2000 ... not an easy achievement. A fabulous sleeper of the vintage, it tastes more like a first-growth than an unclassified offering. Its inky/blue/purple color is accompanied by a spectacular bouquet of lead pencil shavings, ink, blackberries, cedar, and earth. Full-bodied, with terrific texture, fabulous concentration, and moderately high tannin, this massive, atypical 2001 must be tasted to be believed. A brilliant achievement! Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.aspWA 93 (6/2004): This Haut-Medoc performed spectacularly on the two occasions I tasted it from bottle, even eclipsing its impressive showing from cask. It looks to be every bit as powerful as the 2000 ... not an easy achievement. A fabulous sleeper of the vintage, it tastes more like a first-growth than an unclassified offering. Its inky/blue/purple color is accompanied by a spectacular bouquet of lead pencil shavings, ink, blackberries, cedar, and earth. Full-bodied, with terrific texture, fabulous concentration, and moderately high tannin, this massive, atypical 2001 must be tasted to be believed. A brilliant achievement! Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSociandoMallet.asp