1998 Duhart Milon Rothschild

Plums and roses on the nose, with a hint of vanilla cream. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins that are polished and smooth. They still stand out a bit though, so I suggest another couple of years of bottle age. Much better than I remember. '88/'98 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2008). Best after 2011. 23,330 cases made. -James Suckling, Wine Spectator 2009

This dense ruby/purple-colored blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Merlot has filled out nicely during its upbringing in wood. It exhibits a fruitcake, cedar, spice box, plum, black raspberry, and currant-scented bouquet, excellent richness, moderate levels of sweet tannin, fine purity, and a complex style. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020. Produced by the Rothschild's brilliant administrator, Charles Chevalier, Duhart Milon is a wine to watch. Apr 2001, www.robertparker.com

Purple-ruby. Fruit-driven aromas of blackcurrant, violet, shoe polish and mint. Firmly structured and uncompromising; all spine today. Not showing its flesh or texture, but ripe rather than green. Finishes with good length and bracing tannins.