Alluring from the get-go, with layers of warmed raspberry, plum and boysenberry confiture pumping along, carried by a remarkably dense but creamy structure. The finish shows hints of rooibos tea, alder and singed pain d'épices, giving this impressive range. Seems like this is just getting warmed up.—Non-blind La Fleur-Pétrus vertical (December 2015). JM

This is close to its peak today. With a splash decanting, the nose popped with its chocolate mint, flowers, plums and truffle character. Soft and silky, the sensuous finish, with its layers of plums, black cherries, cocoa and truffle sealed the deal. April 2022

Tasted from magnum, the deep garnet-brick colored 1998 la Fleur-Petrus has alluring hoisin, charcuterie, cigar box, sandalwood and potpourri notes with a core of dried mulberries, kirsch, plum preserves and menthol plus hints of tobacco, figs and leather. Soft and satiny textured in the medium to full-bodied mouth, it has bags of earth and minted cassis flavors accenting the dried berries and earthy layers, finishing with a spicy lift.

Served from an ex-chateau magnum served for the opening of the refurbished winery, I am shocked that despite drinking several bottles, I have never published a tasting note! Especially because it is a sensual, almost voluptuous Pomerol, opening beautifully on the nose with plush black and red berries, dark plum, yellow flowers, a touch of black truffle of luxuriously packaged. The palate is full-bodied for La Fleur-Petrus with sensual tannins that belie the structure underneath. This is very harmonious at 15 year of age, very cohesive with a payload of Dorset plum, kirsch, fresh strawberries, truffle and blood orange – almost exotic in style but very classy. This is one of my favourite Pomerols for a fecund vintage. Superb. Drink now-2025. Tasted June 2013.

Red-ruby. Deep aromas of kirsch, graphite and smoky oak. Fat, thick, concentrated and deep; quite fleshy but with backbone. Already offers enticing inner-mouth perfume. Long, satisfying finish features thoroughly ripe tannins and very persistent, sweet, chocolatey fruit. This is turning out very well indeed.

Served blind. Beautiful balance with a dry end. Absolutely classic claret. Pure and simple – in a good way. (JR)