Valandraud 1994

Tasted blind at the Valandraud vertical at the property, the 1994 Valandraud has a healthy dark garnet core, quite deep considering its age. The bouquet is well defined and fresh with cedar and tobacco-infused black fruit, quite Left Bank (Saint Julien to be precise) in style. The palate is medium-bodied with finer tannin than the previous vintage, some red and black fruit remaining, but usurped by tobacco and a light marine-like note. It feels as if it is approaching the end of its drinking plateau, but it has certainly held up extremely well and comes across decidedly classic in style. Like the 1993, how many 1994 Right Banks continue to give pleasure with such generosity? Tasted December 2016.