Valandraud 1998

Quite pale. Fragrant Cab Franc nose. Very gentle and mellow. Relatively lightweight (objectively medium weight) but good balance and refreshing. Perhaps this doesn’t fully capitalise on the ripeness of the 1998 vintage but it has lovely balance and is very succulent. Lovely freshness. Very fine tannins lurking underneath. Very low key but admirably harmonious.

A classic St.-Emilion, the 1998 exhibits a dark plum/purple color as well as an elegant nose of mocha, coffee, cherries, blackberries, and chocolate. It has turned out to be more finesse-styled and less exotic than past vintages. This medium to full-bodied, beautifully concentrated wine reveals chocolate overtones in the aromas and flavors. With exceptional purity, balance, and length, it should turn out to be one of the most elegant Valandrauds yet produced. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2020.