1996 Grand Puy Lacoste

The 1996 Grand-Puy-Lacoste, now at 20 years old, has a very typical bouquet for this estate: correct, linear, well defined, conservative but intense, with pencil shavings, cedar and a subtle balsam aroma. The palate is medium-bodied with a firm structure and well-judged acidity that lends this 1996 impressive focus. It is totally and unashamedly classic in style, austere compared to other Pauillacs from this vintage, the kind of gentleman's claret that should grace a dinner table. I have actually encountered slightly better bottles than this one, tasted at the property. It remains a very fine Pauillac that should drink well for 20-odd years ... just expect a little austerity and aloofness. Tasted July 2016.

Dark chestnut marron. Some development at the rim. Strong cassis aromas. Rather jagged fruit with dusty tannins. A little bit simple with a slightly burnt quality. (JR)

Still dark crimson. Very gravelly nose with really suave ripe fruit on the palate. Very polished and satisfying and nuanced. (JR)