The 1998 Lafleur has been biding its time since it exited from barrel and is now just beginning to flex its muscles. The wonderful bouquet has finally opened with complex red berry fruit, wild hedgerow, truffle and Earl Grey scents that are beautifully defined, opulent yet wonderfully controlled. That translates across onto the palate, which is deep and opulent compared to, say, the 2000, yet exhibits real panache and style. This is structured, yet time is abrading its austerity after 27 years to reveal a compelling white pepper- and mineral-infused finish that is sensual and harmonious. The 1998 is utterly sublime and destined for a long drinking window.  Neil Martin

WS98 "Black truffles, with intense ripe blackberry and black cherry. Superperfumed. Very spicy, with brown sugar and meaty undertones. Full-bodied, with supertight, powerful tannins and a long and rich finish. This is a weight lifter on the palate for its muscular tannins, but it finishes with finesse and beauty. Wow." JS Jun 2009
Chateau Lafleur, Pomerol