1949 La Conseillante

Tasted 6 Times With Consistent Notes It has been several years since I had the 1949, but having gone through a half case I purchased in outstanding condition, I must say that every bottle was exceptional, with a gorgeously ripe, jammy nose of black fruits, sweet, expansive, medium-bodied flavors, and a silky texture. It is interesting that La Conseillante, never the most tannic, muscular, or powerful wine, appears to be drinkable at a remarkably young age yet hold its fruit for decades. A friend of the Nicolas family, the proprietor, told me he consumed several cases of the 1949 in the early fifties because it was so tasty - further proof that balance, not tannin, is often the key to a graceful evolution. I have high hopes that the 1989 and 1990 will prove to be as awesome and ageworthy as the 1949.

From John Barratt's cellar. Dark crimson, dense and sweet. Very rich start but a little dry on the end. Sturdy and firm. Admirable without being charming – a little austere on the finish initially but it mellowed with time. (JR)

Tasted 6 Times With Consistent Notes It has been several years since I had the 1949, but having gone through a half case I purchased in outstanding condition, I must say that every bottle was exceptional, with a gorgeously ripe, jammy nose of black fruits, sweet, expansive, medium-bodied flavors, and a silky texture. It is interesting that La Conseillante, never the most tannic, muscular, or powerful wine, appears to be drinkable at a remarkably young age yet hold its fruit for decades. A friend of the Nicolas family, the proprietor, told me he consumed several cases of the 1949 in the early fifties because it was so tasty - further proof that balance, not tannin, is often the key to a graceful evolution. I have high hopes that the 1989 and 1990 will prove to be as awesome and ageworthy as the 1949.