Bordeaux Book, 4th Edition January, 2003

This wine, like a number of 1988s, has matured well and is just beginning to show maturity. It has a dense, somewhat rugged constitution, with plenty of density, some earthy black fruits intermixed with licorice, compost, camphor, and roasted herbs. The wine is dense, medium to full-bodied, with some coarse tannins in the finish. I do not expect the tannins to ever melt away, but there is plenty of depth to this mouth-filling Palmer. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted, 5/02.

The 1988 offers a promising bouquet of ripe plums, dense, rich, concentrated fruit, and medium body, but I was surprised by the relatively compact finish. Nevertheless, this is one of the best wines of the Margaux appellation in 1988. Anticipated maturity: 1994-2006. Last tasted, 10/92.

Mid ruby with a pale rim. Very pretty, evolved, only slightly leafy nose. Very dry finish – still lots of acidity. Nose is much more beguiling than the slightly skinny, tart palate. Fresh finish does not linger but it is minty mouthwash fresh. JR June 2011