1998 Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan
SKU #996029
97
points
Wine Spectator
Dark color, with decadent aromas of truffles, meat, ripe berries and tobacco. Turns to sweet, crushed berries. Full-bodied, with very polished tannins and a berry and mineral aftertaste. The serious tannin structure is still hiding behind the fruit of the wine. Tightly wound and beautiful. Solid as a rock. A classic wine. (Web, 2009)
96
points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
As reported over the last two years, this is a prodigious Haut-Brion. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple color in addition to a tight, but incredibly promising nose of smoke, earth, minerals, lead pencil, black currants, cherries, and spice. This full-bodied wine unfolds slowly, but convincingly on the palate, revealing a rich, multi-tiered, stunningly pure, symmetrical style with wonderful sweetness, ripe tannin, and a finish that lasts for nearly 45 seconds. It tastes like liquid nobility. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2035.
(4/ 2001)
94
points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Good medium ruby. Aristocratic, highly complex nose hints at plum, roast coffee, leather, grilled nuts, tobacco and earth. A bit reticent today but already offers an uncanny amalgamation of density and vinosity. A very suave, subtle wine that finishes with creamy, sweet tannins and terrific grip and length. Was there a more consistently outstanding first growth through the decade of the '90s?
(5/ 2001)
Jancis Robinson
Deep crimson still. Although there is trademark Haut Brion underneath there is already beguiling tertiary perfume on top. There’s a richness underneath. Warm and spicy and very charming. Acidity is noticeable. A lovely bouquet already.
(4/ 2008)