1988 Pichon Baron
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Tasting notes
Christian Seely advised that magnums of the 1988 Pichon Baron are now far superior to bottles. Only one way to find out. Two magnums tasted and both completely vindicate Seely's view. The bouquet is the personification of a mature Pauillac on the nose with graphite and cedar-infused black fruit. There's a hint of cassis in the background. Impeccable provenance and format mean that it is fresher and more vibrant than bottled examples. The palate is medium-bodied with finely chiseled tannins. It is not as extravagant as the monumental 1989 or 1990, yet the Cabernet Sauvignon drives this along. Replete with a sensual smooth texture on the finish and a saline, almost briny aftertaste, this is irresistible. Tasted at the 1988 Bordeaux dinner at Noble Rot Mayfair.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Welcoming, tobacco and undergrowth aromatics, touches of smoked earth, grilled almonds, fine tannins, showcasing the finessed side of Cabernet as it ages. This has a gentle power, wild strawberry puree, brambled fruits with fresh acidities, lilting, subtle and a lovely moment to drink. Don't expect a Pauillac powerhouse here, but there is life in the glass, a mouthwatering finish and it has something to say. 55-60hl/h yield.
The 1988 Pichon-Longueville promises to be one of the half-dozen superstars of this vintage. Surprisingly large-scaled for a 1988, with an oaky, cassis, and licorice-scented nose, it is deep in color, rich, softly tannic, medium to full-bodied, and should reach maturity early on, but keep for 15-20 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted 1/93
About the producer
Pauillac’s Ch. Pichon Baron, formerly known as Ch. Pichon-Longueville Baron, is ranked as one of the 15 Second Growths from the 1855 Classification and is considered one of the "Super Seconds".