Margaux 1998

Margaux, First Growth

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Tasting Notes

A deep garnet core with deep brick rim. The nose has moderate intensity, not the exuberance and exhilaration of the Haut-Brion, but expressive, with notes of blackberry, tar, a touch of leather and bilberry. What it does not have is Margaux's signature aroma of violets - this is more reserved and masculine. The palate is medium-bodied, quite peppery upon entry with good acidity and balance, yet missing the femininity and the finesse that marks out say the 1999 or the 2001. The finish is quite dry, perhaps a little dour compared to other Chateau Margaux. Tasted March 2008.

Score: 94

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 01 May 2008

Sweet nose that seemed slightly oaky at first - certainly very different from the rest and perhaps not quite as perfumed and silky as one would like. Although it grew in the glass to be more stereotypically Margaux - certainly no lack of concentration and fruit... Lots of life and energy and then attractive sweetness all within a pretty firm framework. Attractive balance. Still very dense - seems at about the right point of evolution for a 10 year-old first growth. Still quite a bit of tannin but the fruit is maturing nicely. Very fresh - may be too much so? (18.5- Points)

Score: 18 - 19

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 202-2025 07 April 2008

Complex aromas of crushed blackberries and toasted oak, with hints of tar. Full-bodied, with big, chewy tannins and hints of vanilla bean and coffee underneath. A bit chewy still, and needs a couple more years to resolve the angular tannins.

Score: 92

James Suckling, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2010+ 01 January 2008

The 1998 Margaux's color is a dense ruby/purple. The wine is tannic and austere, but elegant, with notes of asphalt, blackberries, acacia flowers, and sweet, toasty oak. Subtle, rich, nicely-textured, and medium-bodied, it is built for the long haul. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2030.

Score: 91

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2009-2030 01 April 2001