Pichon Lalande 1988

One of the stars of the vintage, the 1988 has evolved beautifully. Dark ruby, with a full-intensity bouquet of black plums, herbs, and currants, a silky smooth texture, and full body, it is one of the most highly extracted wines of the vintage. Seductively precocious, it should drink superbly over the next 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2008.90 points Drink 1993-2008

Dark ruby, with a full-intensity bouquet of new oak, black fruits, vanillin, and spring flowers, this silky smooth, full-bodied 1988 has excellent extraction of fruit, plenty of glycerine, and a sense of elegance. Seductively precocious, it should drink superbly over the next 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2008.90 points Drink 1993-2008

One of the stars of the vintage, this deeply colored wine (the same color saturation as the 1989) displays a ripe, jammy, curranty nose intertwined with scents of herbs, new oak, and minerals. While it nearly possesses the concentration of the 1989, the tannins are firmer and harder, and the finish is less opulent. The result is a more structured, yet immensely enjoyable Pichon Lalande that should drink well for another 10-15 years.91 points Drink 1992-2007