Tasted at the Chateau Palmer vertical in London from magnum, the 1978 Chateau Palmer has always been a great success for the vintage (mirroring the rejuvenated Chateau Margaux perhaps?). Here, it has a powerful, expressive nose with cedar, sous-bois and cigar-box scents interwoven into the vestiges of black fruit. This is "old school," perhaps the cousin of the magnificent 1966. The palate is medium-bodied and well balanced, hints of spice and cedar, a little dustiness perhaps towards the finish, but overall a convincing Margaux that has far more vigor and length than you would presume. While it is not a renowned vintage for Chateau Palmer, it's a wine I would jump upon if I found it for sale. Tasted May 2015.

One of the Medocs most successful 1978s, this wine has reached full maturity, but it reveals no signs of an early demise. The color is a dark ruby/garnet with only slight amber at the edge. The nose offers up black truffle, cassis, smoked herbs, and meaty aromas. In the mouth, there is a green pepper quality to the rich, sweet fruit. This medium-bodied, silky-textured wine is more spice-driven than most Palmers, but attractive and mouthfilling. Anticipated maturity: Now-2006. Last tasted 10/97