Black licorice and currants on the nose. Very fragrant. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Still needs time to come together.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. James Suckling

While not as backward as the 1996, the opaque purple-colored 1995 is a tannic, unevolved, dense, concentrated wine that will require 8-10 years of cellaring. The 1995 exhibits pain grille, blackcurrant, mineral, and subtle tobacco in its complex yet youthful aromatics. Powerful, dense, concentrated cassis and blueberry flavors might be marginally softer than in the 1996, but there is still plenty of grip and structure to this big wine. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030.

Deep ruby-red. Bright, enticing aromas of redcurrant, minerals and tobacco; not quite as ripe as the '96. Lovely sweetness and clarity of flavor in the mouth. More supple than the '96, and likely to be approachable much earlier. Finishes with substantial, tongue-coating tannins.

A deep garnet core with brick rim. The nose is very reticent at first, developing touch of blackberry, earth, hazelnut and sandalwood. Still comes across a little tight after 13 years. The palate is medium-bodied, very well balanced with a slightly spicy mid-palate. Mulberry, blackberry, a touch of tobacco and orange peel. Perhaps it lacks a little persistency on the finish and a sense of Saint Julien overall. A good wine, but I wanted more. Drink 2012-2025 Tasted March 2008.