1978 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste

Cedar, tobacco, cigar and hints of musk and cloves on the nose. Fully developed and so attractive now, with a barely medium body, fresh acidity and a long finish. Tannins are fully melted. The acidity keeps it very alive. The first vintage after the Borie family purchased the estate. 12% to 12.5% alcohol. Drink now. From a vertical tasting at the winery.

The 1978 Grand-Puy-Lacoste has a ferrous bouquet, fully mature of course, with fresh mint, potpourri and lavender notes. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine bead of acidity and slightly dry tannins. It is pretty meaty with dried blood and black pepper, attenuating just a little on the finish. The 1978 is an old-school Claret through and through, approaching the end of its drinking plateau, so don't hesitate to open any if they're in your cellar.

This is one of the few 1978 Medocs that has not exhibited an increased herbaceousness as it has evolved. The 1978 Grand-Puy-Lacoste remains dark ruby/purple-colored, with a bouquet offering scents of cassis, smoke, and earth. Medium to full-bodied, with fine structure and tannins, this wine combines elegance with authoritative flavors. It is close to maturity, yet it can be cellared for at least 10-12 more years. It may last even longer. Last tasted, 5/93.