1961 Cantemerle

The 1961 is still superb, in fact even better than when I last tasted it in 1984. It is impressively opaque dark ruby with only some amber/orange at the edge. The huge bouquet of smoky, earthy, black currant fruit, spring flowers, leather, and plums is followed by a lush, full-bodied, concentrated wine with that taste of sur-maturite (overripeness) that frequently characterizes the great vintages in Bordeaux. It is still loaded and in fabulous condition. This unctuous, opulently styled wine should continue to drink well. Anticipated maturity: Now-2000. Last tasted, 1/88.