Tasting Notes
Vinous 88
The 1998 Pichon-Baron has a straightforward bouquet of blackberry and graphite aromas mixed with leather and a touch of tomato vine. It just feels a little conservative compared to others. The palate is medium-bodied and quite foursquare, featuring blackberry, raspberry and a touch of iodine; I find a little greenness coming through toward the finish that detracts from its class. This could be better, but the 1998 plays it too safe. Tasted at the Pichon-Baron vertical at the chateau.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030
Robert Parker 92
Tasted at the London Pichon-Baron off-line. This is a great ’98 Pauillac. A deep garnet colour. The bouquet is ebullient, ripe, a sense of a oeconstrained exoticisma with blackberry, creme de cassis and sandalwood. It might lacks a little finesse but it is a captivating perfume. The palate is developing nicely quite primal, good structure with a touch of dried herbs and mint. Drive by pure, cedary Cabernet Sauvignon and a tarry, slight austere finish. Impressive, but give it time. Drink 2011-2020. Tasted May 2009.
Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020

