Cheval Blanc 1988

Tasted at Cheval Blanc dinner at The Ledbury. An ex-chateau bottle that Pierre Lurton compares to the 2008. There is a strictness and linearity to the nose that is in tune with the growing season, completely the opposite of the gregarious ’89. Blackberry, freshly rolled tobacco and blackberry leaf, later a hint of wet clay. The palate is very smooth and harmonious, very focused with steely, almost brittle tannins, the finish very fresh but short and terse. On its own, it comes across a little serious, but with dinner it sings. Drink now-2018. Tasted November 2010.

Score: 91

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2011-2018 01 September 2011

The 1988 is more structured, less alcoholic and less intense than the 1989. It exhibits fine ripeness, and a cool, almost menthol, plummy bouquet intertwined with aromas of smoke and new oak. In the mouth, there are some aggressive tannins, but it does not possess the sheer drama of the 1989. It is a very good Cheval Blanc, but having tasted it numerous times in cask and bottle, I had expected it to be more impressive than it appears to be. Anticipated maturity: 1994-2005. Last tasted, 6/93.

Score: 87

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 1994-2005 01 August 1993