CHÂTEAU LATOUR 1998
Pauillac, 1er Cru 659557
(XD) 1500 mL $850 665729 (XD) 750 mL $399
TASTING NOTE: Red-ruby. Deep aromas of cassis, licorice and lead pencil. Deeper than Les Forts but currently rather mute in the middle. Strongly minerally. Offers classic Latour structure and spine. Finishes with sneaky, subtle persistence.
Score - 91(+?).
(Stephen Tanzer,
International Wine Cellar, May/June 2001)
CHÂTEAU BRANE-CANTENAC 2001
Margaux, 2e Cru 912857
(XD) 750 mL $89
TASTING NOTE: Loads of blackberry and tobacco on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Serious concentration for the vintage, yet outstanding finesse. I like this as much as the 2000. Best after 2008.
Score - 91.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2004)
Château Calon-Segur 1998
St-Estèphe, 3e Cru 45278
(XD) 750 mL $158
TASTING NOTE: Although austere tannin may keep this wine from obtaining an outstanding score, it exhibits plenty of complexity in its earthy, truffle, black cherry, currant, plum, and herb-scented bouquet as well as flavors. Moderately tannic, with good weight, it is a classically-styled 1998. Despite the fact that Calon-Segur tends to utilize about 35% Merlot in the final blend, it is not one of the more precocious efforts of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030.
Score - 89.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2001)
CHÂTEAU CANON-LA-GAFFELIÈRE 2003
St-Émilion Grand Cru 595769
(XD) 750 mL $125
TASTING NOTE: Lots of blackberry, vanilla and cherry on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Well-structured. Solid wine here. Best after 2010.
Score - 92.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006)
CHÂTEAU CHEVAL BLANC 2001
St-Émilion, 1er Grand Cru Classé (A) 503771
(XD) 1500 mL $1099 8466 (XD) 750 mL $550
TASTING NOTE: I was surprised by how soft, opulent, even voluptuous the 2001 Cheval Blanc performed out of bottle as this estate’s wines tend to shut down when young. Its deep ruby/purple color was accompanied by sweet aromas of cranberries, black currants, menthol, Asian spices, and underbrush. This seductive blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc reveals a lush sweetness, medium body, and ripe, well-integrated tannin. A racy effort filled with personality, it should be at its finest between 2007-2018.
Score - 93.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, June 2004)
CHÂTEAU CHEVAL BLANC 2003
St-Émilion, 1er Grand Cru Classé (A) 503763
(XD) 1500 mL $1275
TASTING NOTE: Blackberry, mineral and lightly toasted oak. Subtle and complex. Full-bodied, with wonderfully sweet fruit character and ultrarefined tannins. Goes on and on. Gorgeous and seductive. Best after 2009.
Score - 96.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006)
CHÂTEAU CHEVAL BLANC 2002
St-Émilion, 1er Grand Cru Classé (A) 598599
(XD) 750 mL $399
TASTING NOTE: Smoky, earthy, sweet red and black currant, fig, and menthol notes jump from the glass of this dark ruby/plum-hued, medium-weight Cheval Blanc. Possessing sweet tannin, medium body, and undeniable elegance as well as nobility, this beautifully made effort appears slightly superior (at least to my taste) to the more hyped 2003. Interestingly, yields were 27 hectoliters per hectare in 2002, and 30-31 hectoliters per hectare in 2003. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2005)
CHÂTEAU CHEVAL BLANC 2000
St-Émilion, 1er Grand Cru Classé (A) 503789
(XD) 1500 mL $3599
TASTING NOTE: This closed, backward blend of 53% Merlot and 47% Cabernet Franc boasts a saturated purple color along with a reticent but striking bouquet of blackberries, blueberries, truffles, and mocha. In spite of its tightness, aeration reveals scents of licorice, menthol, and saddle leather. Opulent and full-bodied, with low acidity, sweet tannin, and a 60-second finish, it is unquestionably as profound as the 1990 and 1982. I still believe the 2000 has the potential to be the most compelling Cheval Blanc since the mythical 1947 and 1949, but patience is required. It should merit a three digit score in 7-10 years, but it is closed at present. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030+. Note: The original score for this wine was 98 in The Wine Advocate but it is changed to 100 per Mr. Parker as of August, 2006.
Score - 100.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2003)
Château Clos De Sarpe 1999
St-Émilion Grand Cru 45252
(XD) 750 mL $118
TASTING NOTE: There are approximately 1,000 cases of this stunning St.-Emilion, which, since 1998 has emerged as one of the biggest, richest, fullest-bodied wines of the appellation. It can border on being rustic, but there is so much power, depth, and concentrated fruit that serious Bordeaux consumers need to give it a try. The 1999 may not compare to the other-worldly 2000, or powerful 1998, but it is a rich, deep ruby/purple-colored effort offering gorgeous aromas of black raspberries, licorice, earth, and toast. The wine is highly-extracted, rich, and full-bodied, with moderately high tannin. It is a behemoth for the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2018.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2002)
Château COS D'ESTOURNEL 2003
St-Estèphe, 2e Cru 595934
(XD) 750 mL $299
TASTING NOTE: The prodigious, fantastic 2003 Cos d’Estournel is a candidate for “wine of the vintage.” A blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon (unusually high for this chateau), 30% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc, 17,500 cases were produced from low yields. An inky/blue/purple color is accompanied by a compelling perfume of black fruits, subtle smoke, pain grille, incense, and flowers. With extraordinary richness, full body, and remarkable freshness, elegance, and persistence, this is one of the finest wines ever made by this estate. The good news is that it will be drinkable at a young age yet evolve for three decades or more. Kudos to winemaker Jean-Guillaume Prats and owner Michel Reybier.
Score - 98.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
Château Grand Mayne 1999
St-Émilion Grand Cru 45245
(XD) 750 mL $98
TASTING NOTE: Grand Mayne has fashioned a superb 1999, with terrific concentration and a hedonistic, sexy style. This dense, purple-colored offering displays glorious levels of sweet blackberry and currant, fruit, a succulent, lush texture, full body, low acidity, and beautifully integrated wood and tannin. It offers a substantial mouthful of sumptuous St.-Emilion. Anticipated maturity: now-2013.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2002)
Château HAUT-BRION 2003 Pessac-Léognan, 1er Cru 595835
(XD) 750 mL $499
Robert Parker gave this wine 95 points.
TASTING NOTE: Complex aromas of black licorice, tobacco and cedar with red fruits. Full-bodied, with superseductive, silky tannins, loads of fruit and a finish that lasts for minutes. A beauty in all the sense of the word. Best after 2012.
Score - 96.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006)
CHÂTEAU HAUT-MARBUZET 2003
St-Estèphe, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel 591081
(XD) 750 mL $79
TASTING NOTE: Lovely aromas of crushed raspberry and Indian spices, with hints of dried flowers. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fruity berry aftertaste. I like it better than the 2000. Seductive. Best after 2007.
Score - 91.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, July 31, 2006)
Château LA CROIX-DE-GAY 2003
Pomerol 591123
(XD) 750 mL $46
TASTING NOTE: Plenty of blackberry, chocolate and berry with hints of cherries. Full-bodied, with round, velvety tannins and loads of fruit. A lovely, balanced wine, with just the right amount of fruit and fine tannins. All there. Best after 2009.
Score - 90.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006)
Château La Dominique 1995
St-Émilion, Grand Cru Classé 902650
(XD) 750 mL $95
TASTING NOTE: While 1995 is also a tannic vintage for La Dominique, there is sweeter fruit as well as more ripeness and intensity (at least at present) in the wine's moderately intense nose of vanillin, blackberry and raspberry fruit. In the mouth, there is good sweetness, medium to full body, moderate tannin, and a layered, rich, classic tasting profile. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2016.
Score - 89.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 1998)
CHÂTEAU LA MISSION HAUT-BRION 2003
Pessac-Léognan 596163
(XD) 750 mL $275
TASTING NOTE: The 2003 La Mission Haut-Brion is a large-scaled wine offering a distinctive bouquet of scorched earth, black cherry liqueur, and hints of blackberries, blueberries, graphite, and smoke. Ripe, heady, full-bodied, soft, and revealing considerable complexity, low acidity, and a broad, expansive mouthfeel, it should drink well in 2-3 years and last for two decades. Its 13% plus alcohol is normal for this hot year.
Score - 94.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
Château LANGOA BARTON 2003
St-Julien, 3e Cru 591834
(XD) 750 mL $69
TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - 92.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006)
CHÂTEAU LANGOA-BARTON 1999
St-Julien, 3e Cru 733139
(XD) 750 mL $79
TASTING NOTE: Loads of floral, berry and mineral character on the nose. Full-bodied, with loads of layered tannins and fruit and a long, long finish. Big wine. Best after 2005.
Score - 90.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2002)
CHÂTEAU LARCIS DUCASSE 2003
St-Émilion, Grand Cru Classé 591495
(XD) 750 mL $64
TASTING NOTE: This noble terroir is finally exploiting its full potential. Situated near Pavie on a clay/limestone base topped with pure limestone, the brilliant team of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt has completely resurrected this great estate from the depths of mediocrity in less than two years. Fashioned from 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon (2,500 cases produced), the beautifully elegant 2003 reveals sweet cedar, fruitcake, and aristocratic cassis and tobacco notes reminiscent of an exceptional Medoc. Complexity and nobility continue in the mouth with wonderfully fresh, lively, black currant and plum-like characteristics interwoven with kirsch. Expansive, round, and generous, with low acidity and superb fruit ripeness, it is a candidate for drinking during its first 12-15 years of life. It is undeniably disarming at present, but will it close down? Anticipated maturity: now-2016
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
CHÂTEAU LATOUR 1989
Pauillac, 1er Cru 658765
(XD) 750 mL $599
TASTING NOTE: Rich and round wine. Full-bodied, with very good fruit and long velvety tannins. Needs more time. Round and rich. This is always outstanding and underrated by many. '89/'90 Bordeaux non-blind horizontal. Best after 2007.
Score - 94.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, Feb. 28, 2005)
CHÂTEAU LATOUR 2003
Pauillac, 1er Cru 658930
(XD) 1500 mL $3999
TASTING NOTE: 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+.
Score - 100.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
CHÂTEAU LATOUR 1994
Pauillac, 1er Cru 682310 (XD) 3000 mL $1699 659250
(XD) 1500 mL $799 665638 (XD) 750 mL $349
TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - 94.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Jan. 1998)
CHÂTEAU LATOUR 1988
Pauillac, 1er Cru 912931
(XD) 1500 mL $999
TASTING NOTE: The best showing yet for a wine from this under-rated vintage, the dark garnet-colored 1988 Latour reveals slight amber at the edge. A bouquet of melted tar, plums, black currants, cedar, and underbrush is followed by a sweet entry, with medium to full body, excellent ripeness, and mature tannin. It is a classic, elegant Latour with more meaty, vegetable-like flavors than are found in a riper year, such as 1989 and 1990. The 1988 has just begun to enter its plateau of maturity, where it should remain for 25 years. Anticipated maturity: now-2025.
Score - 91.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, June 2000)
Château Le Bon Pasteur 1999
Pomerol 20107
(XD) 750 mL $95
TASTING NOTE: Dany and Michel Rolland's home estate has produced a dense, ruby/purple-colored wine with an intriguing perfume of espresso, sweet vanilla, and black cherry jam. It is powerful and concentrated for a 1999. This medium to full-bodied, moderately tannic Pomerol is atypically structured, with plenty of grip, length, and intensity. It is a superb effort for the vintage Anticipated maturity: 2005-2016.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2002).
Château L'Enclos 1998 Pomerol 656975
(XD) 750 mL $64
While much of the Enclos vineyard lies west of the N98 Libourne to Périgueux main road, on soil which is quite sandy, there is an important parcel which lies near Pomerol church, and it is this which gives the wine from L'Enclos its class. It is carefully made (particularly as far as yield is concerned), matured in one-third new oak, and the result is a wine of medium weight, elegance and harmony. (Clive Coates MW, An Encyclopedia of the Wines and Domaines of France, 2000).
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 1996
St-Julien, 2e Cru 685099
(XD) 750 mL $395
TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - 98.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 1999)
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE-BARTON 1994
St-Julien, 2e Cru 956235
(XD) 750 mL $99
TASTING NOTE: … 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.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 1997)
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE-BARTON 1999
St-Julien, 2e Cru 733097
(XD) 750 mL $110
TASTING NOTE: Black licorice and roasted coffee aromas. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Tight wine. Give it time. Solid Barton. Best after 2004.
Score - 89.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2002)
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE-BARTON 1993
St-Julien, 2e Cru 660290
(XD) 750 mL $89
TASTING NOTE: Good nose of intense, youthful fruit. Attractive and well rounded, with a classy long finish.
Score - **** (out of 5). (www.decanter.com)
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE-BARTON 1988
St-Julien, 2e Cru 699694
(XD) 750 mL $190
TASTING NOTE: A ruby garnet colour, even more open on the nose, with smoky, weedy blackcurrant fruit, and some new oak. Packed with fruit on the palate, with better integration of tannins. Elegant texture, medium bodied, and balanced. More of that lovely weedy fruit, but despite this my overall opinion is a rich, firm, evolved wine from a good vintage. Very good.
(Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com).
Château Lynch Bages 1998
Pauillac, 5e Cru 45294
(XD) 750 mL $180
TASTING NOTE: Extremely well done. Dark, with lots of vanilla, strawberry, cherry and currant aromas. Full-bodied, with big, silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Best after 2007.
Score - 91.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, Jan. 31, 2001)
CHÂTEAU LYNCH-BAGES 1995
Pauillac, 5e Cru 581744
(XD) 750 mL $185
TASTING NOTE: Crushed blackberries and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and very good fruit. Just starting to come around. Give it time.-- '95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2008.
Score - 91.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, Web Only, 2007).
CHÂTEAU MALESCOT ST. EXUPÉRY 1995
Margaux, 3e Cru 581728
(XD) 750 mL $95
TASTING NOTE: This wine may merit an outstanding rating. It offers a classic Margaux combination of elegance and richness. Medium-bodied, with delicate, beautifully ripe, black currant and floral aromas that compete with subtle new oak, the 1995 Malescot hits the palate with a lovely concoction of fruit, nicely integrated tannin and acidity, and a stylish, graceful feel. This quintessentially elegant Bordeaux should continue to improve in the bottle. A beauty! Anticipated maturity: 2002-2018.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 1998).
CHÂTEAU MALESCOT St. EXUPÉRY 2001
Margaux, 3e Cru 38224
(XD) 750 mL $90
TASTING NOTE: The 2001 Malescot is a highly perfumed, thoroughly seductive, Margaux of great breed. It can be drunk now, but will be at its best in five to seven years, and held for five or more years beyond that.
(Ben Giliberti,
www.washingtonpost.com, Oct. 27, 2004)
CHÂTEAU MALESCOT St. EXUPÉRY 1999
Margaux, 3e Cru 742965
(XD) 750 mL $98
TASTING NOTE: This 1999 is one of the finest efforts of the vintage. It offers up complex aromatics consisting of herbs, red and black fruits, minerals, acacia flowers, and licorice. The dark plum color does not possess the saturation of a vintage such as 2000, but this is pure seduction in a medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, nicely-textured effort. It is virtually impossible to duplicate such a wine anywhere else in the world. Anticipated maturity:
now-2012.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2002)
Château Malescot St. ExupÉry 1998
Margaux, 3e Cru 987040
(XD) 750 mL $110
TASTING NOTE: A classic, this 1998 combines elegance with lovely textured, rich flavors of black cherries and currants, resulting in a quintessential Bordeaux that is unlike any other wine produced in the world. The wine possesses an ethereal lightness, layers of fruit, and a diaphanous framework. More nuances appear with each sip. Tasters will find notes of blackberries, plums, currants, tar, spice box, and minerals. A beautifully etched wine, it will be at its finest between 2003-2017.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2001)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1994
Margaux, 1er Cru 509406
(XD) 1500 mL $1195
TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - 92.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 1997)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1989
Margaux, 1er Cru 509547
(XD) 1500 mL $1995 509539 (XD) 750 mL $799
TASTING NOTE: Round and velvety wine, with lovely blackberry and raspberry character. Full-bodied, with lovely tannins and a long finish. Still tight. Not as big as I remember, but excellent. I have always loved this wine. '89/'90 Bordeaux non-blind horizontal. Best after 2008.
Score - 96.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, Feb. 28, 2005)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1988
Margaux, 1er Cru 509596
(XD) 1500 mL $1999 507145 (XD) 750 mL $899
TASTING NOTE: Still not giving all it has to offer, this shows wonderful aromas and flavors of currant, violet, tobacco and earth. Full-bodied and powerful, with a solid underpinning of firm yet silky tannins. A classic Margaux. -- 1988 Bordeaux horizontal. Best after 2000.
Score - 95.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, Nov. 30, 1998)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1985
Margaux, 1er Cru 509729
(XD) 1500 mL $1695 509711 (XD) 750 mL $825
TASTING NOTE: While not as powerful and concentrated as the 1986, 1983, or 1982, the 1985 Margaux is more charming and, at present, more complex than those more backward vintages. The color is a healthy dark ruby/purple. The seductive nose offers copious quantities of lavishly ripe black berry and cassis fruit intermixed with toasty oak and floral scents. This rich, expansive, and velvety-textured wine has developed more length, and additional flavor dimensions over the last several years. It has always been a remarkably approachable and enjoyable wine, but it appears to be taking on more character and quality than I ever imagined. It is one of the most delicious and seductively opulent Margauxs of the last two decades. I consistently underestimated this wine when young. It gets better every time I re-taste it, which happens with increasing frequency. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted 10/97.
Score - 94.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Jan. 1998)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1983
Margaux, 1er Cru 509745
(XD) 1500 mL $1715 507152 (XD) 750 mL $845
TASTING NOTE: 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. Last tasted 9/97.
Score - 96.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Jan. 1988)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1996
Margaux, 1er Cru 509307
(XD) 1500 mL $2100
TASTING NOTE: The 1996 Chateau Margaux, which was bottled in September, 1998, is undoubtedly one of the great classics produced under the Mentzelopoulos regime. In many respects, it is the quintessential Chateau Margaux, as well as the paradigm for this estate, combining measured power, extraordinary elegance, and admirable complexity. I tasted the wine on three separate occasions in January, and in short, it's a beauty! The color is opaque purple. The wine offers extraordinarily pure notes of blackberries, cassis, pain grille, and flowers, gorgeous sweetness, a seamless personality, and full body, with nothing out of place. The final blend (85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc) contains a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. It tastes complete and long, although backward. My instincts suggest this wine will shut down, but at present it is open-knit, tasting like a recently bottled wine. The fruit is exceptionally sweet and pure, and there are layers of flavor in the mouth. I do believe this wine will develop an extraordinary perfume, and possess a high level of richness. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2040.
Score - 99.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 1999)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1995
Margaux, 1er Cru 509356
(XD) 1500 mL $1999
TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - 95.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 1998)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1997
Margaux, 1er Cru 509240
(XD) 750 mL $345
TASTING NOTE: Undoubtedly a success for the vintage, this immensely charming, dark ruby/purple-colored wine exhibits floral, black currant, and smoky, toasty oak aromas. There is admirable richness, excellent ripeness, not a great deal of density, or superb concentration, but plenty of finesse, suppleness, and character. It can be drunk young, or cellared for 12-15 years.
Score - 90.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2000)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 2000
Margaux, 1er Cru 509067
(XD) 1500 mL $3299 509059 (XD) 750 mL $1349
TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - 100.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2003)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1998
Margaux, 1er Cru 509208
(XD) 1500 mL $949
TASTING NOTE: The 1998 Margaux's color is a dense ruby/purple. The wine is tannic and austere, but elegant, with notes of asphalt, blackberries, acacia flowers, and sweet, toasty oak. Subtle, rich, nicely-textured, and medium-bodied, it is built for the long haul. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2030.
Score - 91.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2001)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 1993
Margaux, 1er Cru 509448
(XD) 750 mL $399
TASTING NOTE: Château Margaux is back after a weak '92. Big for the vintage, featuring loads of new oak to provide a smoky, toasty taste. Attractive currant, black cherry and rose petal character. Medium-bodied, exotic and ripe. Somewhat hard now, and you wish for a bit more concentration, but time should turn it into a lovely wine. Try in 1999.
Score - 90.
www.winespectator.com, Jan. 31, 1996)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 2003
Margaux, 1er Cru 508911
(XD) 1500 mL $2395
TASTING NOTE: Am I being too stingy with the 2003 Chateau Margaux? A wine of extraordinary complexity and intensity, it reveals a deep purple color, a style not unlike the 1990 Margaux (possibly even more concentrated), a velvety texture, and notes of spring flowers interwoven with camphor, melted licorice, creme de cassis, and pain grille. Not a blockbuster, it offers extraordinary intensity as well as a surreal delicacy/lightness. There is riveting freshness to this offering, which tips the scales at a lofty (for this estate) 13.5% alcohol, as well as an alluring sweetness and accessibility. It probably will tighten up over the next few years. Nevertheless, it is a profound Chateau Margaux that brings to mind a hypothetical blend of the 1982 and 1990. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2035.
Score - 99.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
CHÂTEAU MARSAU 2003
Côtes de Francs 599605
(XD) 750 mL $26
TASTING NOTE: One of the Cotes de Francs’ leading properties, Marsau is a seriously-maintained vineyard run by the president of Dourthe, Jean-Marie Chadronnier. Transcending its pedigree, the 2003 offers notes of plums, blueberries, flowers, and toasty, smoky oak. Medium-bodied, lush, opulent, and surprisingly concentrated as well as persistent, this is a hedonistic wine to drink over the next 5-8 years.
Score - 89.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
Château MOUTON ROTHSCHILD 2003
Pauillac, 1er Cru 596213
(XD) 750 mL $585
TASTING NOTE: Backward, powerful, and extremely tannic, the dense purple-colored 2003 Mouton-Rothschild, a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, fashioned from yields of 28 hectoliters per hectare, with a finished alcohol of 12.9%, improves dramatically with aeration. With full-bodied, meaty, powerful, dry flavors as well as a huge finish, this high class wine should be at its finest between 2012-2040+. During its sojourn in barrel, it reminded me of a hypothetical blend of the 1982 and 1986 Moutons, but since bottling, it appears different, and even more tannic than those two vintages. I still believe the finest recent Mouton-Rothschild is the 2000.
Score - 95.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
CHÂTEAU PALMER 2003
Margaux, 2e Cru 595918
(XD) 750 mL $205
TASTING NOTE: Blackberry, licorice and tar follow through to a full-bodied palate, with firm, silky tannins and a medium berry and vanilla aftertaste. Juicy wine. Best after 2008.
Score - 90.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006)
Château PAVIE 2003
St-Émilion, Grand Cru Classé 653253
(XD) 750 mL $279
TASTING NOTE: The 2003 Pavie (7,080 cases; 13.5% alcohol) is closest in style to the 2000, but slightly more evolved and exotic. Its dense plum/purple color is accompanied by an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, creme de cassis, melted licorice, espresso roast, and blackberries. The wine, which hits the palate with a dramatic minerality, comes across like a hypothetical blend of limestone liqueur intermixed with black and red fruits. With massive depth, richness, and body, this tannic 2003 should be forgotten for 4-5 years, then enjoyed over the next four decades. The integration of acidity, tannin, and wood is flawless, and the wine is incredibly pure, rich, and intense.
Score - 98.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
CHÂTEAU PAVIE DECESSE 2003
St-Émilion Grand Cru 587493
(XD) 750 mL $279
TASTING NOTE: Composed of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc (13.5% alcohol), the inky/purple-tinged 2003 exhibits an extraordinary bouquet of crushed rocks, white flowers, and red as well as black fruits. The most port-like of the 2003 Perse offerings, it is a sexy, opulent, viscous St.-Émilion with extraordinary density as well as an exotic, nearly over-the-top richness. It will be drinkable in 2-3 years, and last for 25 or more. This flamboyant, ostentatious wine is a brilliant tour de force in 2003 Bordeaux. Drink 2008-2033.
Score - 96.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
ChÂteau POTENSAC 2003
Médoc, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel
(Veyret Latour) 587279 (XD) 750 mL $49
TASTING NOTE: The dark plum/purple-tinged 2003 Potensac is a sleeper of the vintage. Sweet, exotic scents of mincemeat, black currants, cherries, and crushed rocks are followed by an elegant, fleshy, forward, delicious claret to enjoy over the next 5-7 years, although this wine has a tendency to last longer. It is one of the finest Potensacs produced in several years.
Score - 89.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006)
ChÂteau Quinault L'Enclos 2000
St-Émilion Grand Cru 45369
(XD) 750 mL $125
TASTING NOTE: The powerful, multi-layered 2000 should rival 1998 as the finest Quinault produced. It boasts an opaque purple color as well as a gorgeous concoction of crushed blackberries, blueberries, and black currants intermixed with violets, licorice, and subtle smoky oak. It cuts a broad swath across the palate with an expansive chewiness in addition to terrific concentration, purity, and overall equilibrium. In spite of that, it is remarkably light on its feet. It is hard to find fault with this wine, making the cascade of local criticism of Raynaud all the more difficult to comprehend.
Score - 94.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2003)
Château Rauzan-Gassies 2000
Margaux, 2e Cru 45351
(XD) 750 mL $99
TASTING NOTE: Best ever from this estate. Fabulous aromas of blackberries and ripe currants. Full-bodied, with super well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. An excellent quality wine. Best after 2010.
Score - 92.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2003).
Château Vray Croix De Gay 2000
Pomerol 694612
(XD) 750 mL $96
TASTING NOTE: Deep plum/purple, with a flamboyant perfume of black fruits intermixed with creosote, vanilla, plums, and cherries, the 2000 may not have the concentration of the 2001, but it is sweet, lush, expansive, and a big improvement over previous vintages. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2014.
Score - 89.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2003).
Domaine De Chevalier 2001
Pessac-Léognan 45310
(XD) 750 mL $80
TASTING NOTE: Silky and elegant red, with fine tannins and a fresh, fruity finish. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a mineral aftertaste. Already a beauty to taste. Best after 2007. 7,500 cases made.
Score - 90.
(James Suckling,
www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2004).
LE PETIT CHEVAL 2003
St-Émilion, Second Wine of Cheval Blanc 588087
(XD) 750 mL $129
TASTING NOTE: (a 50/50 blend of merlot and cabernet franc) Ruby-red. Pure aromas of blackberry, cassis, violet and bitter chocolate. Fresh and juicy, with sappy flavors of dark berries and violet. Conveys a lovely sweetness, but finishes with a slight tart edge.
Score - 87- 89.
(Stephen Tanzer,
International Wine Cellar, May/June 2004).
LES FORTS DE LATOUR 2002
Pauillac, Second Wine of Château Latour 659086
(XD) 750 mL $169
TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - 92.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2005).
LES FORTS DE LATOUR 2003
Pauillac, Second Wine of Château Latour
912907
(XD) 1500 mL $425 665737 (XD) 750 mL $199
TASTING NOTE: The 2003 Les Forts de Latour 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. Drink 2006-2021.
Score - 92.
(Robert Parker Jr.,
www.erobertparker.com, April 2006).
