Tasting note: ("this seems to be stuck in a time capsule as it does not appear to be aging - it clearly needs much more time" - AdV). I completely agree with M. de Villaine's comments as the '89 really has not perceptibly budged in the last 5 years as it remains completely primary and while all of the classic La Tâche spice aromas are there, the complexity and depth that most vintages display by age 13 are not yet present. That said, the potential is clearly here as there is real concentration to the very fresh flavors supported by a solidly tannic backbone. One reason I'm persuaded that this will ultimately mature into a fine example is that the finish is extremely complex and long and thus the aromatics should eventually follow.

PRODUCTION: 1,711 cases. The 1989 exhibits a healthy dark ruby color, followed by a smoky, oak-dominated nose with obvious ripe black fruit that is currently taking a back seat to the wine's wood and structure. Medium to full-bodied, with excellent to outstanding concentration, as well as more noticeable acidity than was evident from barrel, and a tendency to narrow out on the palate, this is a highly promising La Tache that appears to be better than the monolithic, perplexingly simple 1988. Give it 1-2 more years of cellaring and drink it over the following 10-12.

Put me on record as saying that the domaine did not make great wines in this year. This bottle of 1989 La Tâche Grand Cru is like others - disappointing. Muffled and lacking clarity on the nose, I cannot get away from the herbal character that either comes from underripe fruit or stems not fully lignified. The palate is, for lack of a better word, just ordinary. Nice, but ordinary. It could benefit from more delineation, but it just lacks breeding. Ho-hum. Tasted at a private dinner in Hong Kong.