1996 Pibran

The 1996 Pibran has turned out to be a sleeper of the vintage. A big, muscular wine, it boasts a saturated purple color, and sweet cassis fruit intermeshed with cedar and spice. In the mouth, it is medium to full-bodied, with ripe, well-integrated tannin, adequate acidity, and a long, well-delineated finish. This large-scaled, reasonably-priced Pauillac should drink well between 2004-2016. It is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance mostly Merlot, with a small dollop of Cabernet Franc.

The 1996 Pibran has turned out to be a sleeper of the vintage. A big, muscular wine, it boasts a saturated purple color, and sweet cassis fruit intermeshed with cedar and spice. In the mouth, it is medium to full-bodied, with ripe, well-integrated tannin, adequate acidity, and a long, well-delineated finish. This large-scaled, reasonably-priced Pauillac should drink well between 2004-2016. It is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance mostly Merlot, with a small dollop of Cabernet Franc. Apr 1999, www.robertparker.com

Ruby-red. Pungent aromas of currant, roasted plum, saddle leather and truffle. Sweet and silky in the mouth; shows more vinosity and verve than the '98, as well as more texture. Here the tannins are sweeter and the finishing flavor is riper.