Double decanted before service; enjoyed over a several hour period. The 1988 pours a deep garnet color with a near opaque core; medium viscosity with moderate staining of the tears and significant signs of sediment. On the nose, the wine is vinous with dried dark fruit, tobacco, mocha, grilled meat, mushrooms, damp earth and baking spices. On the palate, the wine is dry. At this point, the tannins have integrated completely and are perceived as medium; acid is similar. Finish is medium. This leaned towards the more rustic, old school style of Bordeaux and I’m all for it. While this isn’t falling off a cliff, I would drink now. — 14 days ago
British Airways First LHR-LAX — 14 days ago
The 2016 Les Carmes Haut-Brion is consistent with previous bottles. It soars from the glass with those (to use a word I used last time) disarming array of blackberry, iris and fig aromas, but displaying a little more blue fruit than I recall. The palate is very well balanced with a velvety texture, pure with just a hint of black pepper. Interestingly, the 65% whole bunches are barely noticeable, just a guiding hand that shapes the finish. Sapid yet tender, this is an outstanding Pessac-Léognan. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at the Icons of Bordeaux dinner at Legacy Records in New York. (Neal Martin, Vinous, May 2024)
— a month ago
Nice La Mission 2nd where the tannins are structured but soft and complementary to the blend. More dark fruit than red. The fruit is starting its downward spiral - but it just started!! — 8 days ago
Another great btl. Consistent with my many prior notes — a month ago
Stephen F Laga MD
Saved in my cellar since purchasing it about 24 years ago. Deep purple color. Sooo smooth and silky. Some earthy tastes with tobacco flavors. No aftertaste. Just a little piece of heaven. 1990 vintage. — 8 days ago