CHÂTEAU DUCRU BEAUCAILLOU

The 1998 Ducru-Beaucaillou, matured in two-thirds new oak, is so much better than the succeeding vintage, one that I have admired since first tasting it just after bottling. There is much more complexity and personality on the nose with vivacious red berry fruit, the rose petals and kirsch that I noticed before, maybe here with accentuated earthiness. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-boned tannins, classic in style, the oak nicely integrated. There is commendable weight and persistence, especially in terms of salinity on the finish. Whilst not as refined as recent vintages, this is maturing well. Tasted at the Ducru Beaucaillou vertical at the château. Drinking range: 2021 - 2040 Rating: 92 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Jul 2022)

The 1998 Ducru Beaucaillou is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot that was picked between 24 September and 7 October. It has a lucid ruby hue with very little ageing on the rim. The bouquet is ripe, almost heady in style, glossy perhaps with kirsch, maraschino cherries, vanilla and crushed rose petals. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, dense black fruit laced with game, allspice, white pepper and leather. This is a more sinewy take on the vineyard compared to the more refined and finessed wines under Bruno Borie today, although there is plenty of freshness here and it will continue to age for several years. Tasted at the château. Drinking range: 2018 - 2034 Rating: 92 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (May 2018)

Decanter ***** Award ‘Rich, tobacco-blackcurrant fruit, lovely texture, depth and length.’ Steven SpurrierSteven Spurrier (Mar 2005)