1998 Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou, Saint-Julien, Bottle (750ml) [Slightly Scuffed Label]

"The 1998 Ducru Beaucaillou is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot that was picked between 24 September and 7 October. It has a lucid ruby hue with very little ageing on the rim. The bouquet is ripe, almost heady in style, glossy perhaps with kirsch, maraschino cherries, vanilla and crushed rose petals. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, dense black fruit laced with game, allspice, white pepper and leather. This is a more sinewy take on the vineyard compared to the more refined and finessed wines under Bruno Borie today, although there is plenty of freshness here and it will continue to age for several years. Tasted at the chateau." NM for VM May 2018