In Bond Fine Wine. 1988 Château Grand Puy Lacoste, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France. Fifth Growth • Red Bordeaux in 6x150cl. Top critic score: 17/20 (JR). Drinking window: 2018–2024. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste has earned a reputation for reliability and classicism, offering some of the best value among Pauillac’s classified growths. Under the long-term stewardship of François-Xavier Borie, the estate has focused on traditional methods, minimal intervention, and meticulous work in the vineyard. Grand-Puy-Lacoste is known for its classic Cabernet Sauvignon cedary notes, & ability to age gracefully. A favourite among those looking for absolutely classic Pauillac at a fair price.
Neal Martin (NM) — 87/100 · Vinous, 2018-05-01 · Drink 2018-2024
The 1988 Grand Puy Lacoste has a leafy bouquet, quite rustic in style, certainly what you might describe as “old school” Bordeaux. It reminds me of going up into an attic, but it is utterly charming. The palate is medium-bodied and certainly rather green on the entry. It is surprisingly soft but unlike say the 1990, it does not provide the fruit and substance to back it up. The nose is actually b…
Jancis Robinson MW (JR) — 17/20 · JancisRobinson.com, 05/10/2015
Impressively aromatic. Very classic 'luncheon claret' (ie not that rich) ' still lively and notably fragrant. Just at the perfect stage of evolution now with 1988's rather obdurate tannins now shaken off. Taut, fine and transparent. (JR)