1998 Clos Vougeot

Big, rich and somewhat austere black earthy fruit is followed by intense, well structured flavors underpinned by a solid but ripe tannic backbone. There is lots of structure here and this is built to age though there appears to be sufficient mid-palate density to buffer the tannin as it ages. I would suggest trying this again in another 6 to 7 years as the finish is somewhat astringent at present. Tasted multiple times with consistent notes.

Bright red-ruby. Vibrant, complex nose combines black cherry, licorice, flowers and herbs. Then surprisingly closed in the middle palate, with the fruit shortened by strong, tongue-dusting tannins. Distinctly dry on the back end today. Does this have enough mid-palate material to reward aging?