1988 Chateau Lafleur, Pomerol 1x750ml

Vinous 95

The 1988 Lafleur is a vintage that I have not encountered for a while. It has a typical ’88 nose, a bit austere (especially when directly juxtaposed with the ensuing two vintages), arguably conservative and not wishing to put a foot wrong. Light black fruit, antique bureau, freshly rolled tobacco and hints of pine emerge. The palate is medium-bodied and quite elegant in style, with fine balance and subtle spicy scents that surface with time. There is something mellow about this Lafleur that is very appealing, and it develops wonderful precision on the finish. Just a lovely wine. Tasted from ex-château magnum at Kate & Kon’s 40-year vertical in Austria. [Neal Martin, 09/01/2025]

Anticipated maturity: 2025-2055

Robert Parker 93

Tasted from an ex-chateau magnum at the Lafleur vertical dinner at Attersee in Austria, this is actually better than the bottle served by Jacques Guinaudeau at Grand Village back in September 2008. It has a classic tobacco and sous-bois scented nose with hints of undergrowth and Japanese green tea. It is well defined, perhaps a little aloof, but very attractive and cerebral. The palate is beautifully balanced with firm tannins that lend this a masculine personality. But it is fresh and vibrant, conservative with a lovely finish of dried herbs and dried blood. There is a captivating nonchalance imbued in this ’88 Lafleur…it is what it is. Tasted June 2012. [Neal Martin, 06/01/2012]