1988 Talbot
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Tasting notes
The 1988 Talbot is a vintage that I had not tasted for a long time. Now at 30-years old, it has a slightly paler colour compared to the 1988 Gruaud Larose with faint bricking on the rim. The bouquet is very attractive with bright soy-tinged red fruit, sandalwood, clove and a touch of antique bureau. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin, soft in texture with soy-tinged (again) red fruit, finely judged acidity and a classic, traditional cedar-tinged finish that is maybe just a tad too bitter, though this might be offset accompanied by suitable cuisine. One for those that like traditional Saint Julien, although I would drink bottles in the near future. (Also, I would refrain from decanting as it became a little volatile with aeration). Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 1988 Talbot is dark ruby, with a well-focused personality brimming with spicy, chocolatey, blackcurrant, leathery, herbal fruit buttressed by good acidity and high tannins. In the mouth, the wine has a game-like, smoky, beefy character. If the tannins fade a little and the fruit takes over, this will be an outstanding wine. Anticipated maturity: 1995-2015.
Amber, ruby color, with aromas of tobacco and prune that follow through to a medium body, with light coffee and berry flavors. Medium finish. Little thin now. Needs drinking.¿'88/'98 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2008). Drink now. 38,000 cases made.James Suckling, Wine Spectator 2009
The 1988 Talbot is dark ruby, with a well-focused personality brimming with spicy, chocolatey, blackcurrant, leathery, herbal fruit buttressed by good acidity and high tannins. In the mouth, the wine has a game-like, smoky, beefy character. If the tannins fade a little and the fruit takes over, this will be an outstanding wine. Anticipated maturity: 1995-2015. Feb 1993, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Quality has not necessarily always lived up to this property’s Fourth Growth status, however there have been significant improvements in recent years, with a sustainable focus in the vineyard, and new winery and cellar.