This is the third time that I have tasted the 1988 Le Pin, a wine always destined to be overshadowed by the twin titans of 1989 and 1990. That is probably unfair because the 1988 is a perfectly fine Pomerol in its own right. It has a bewitching bouquet with blackberry, cloves and earthy black fruit, which here morph into roasted chestnut aromas. It blossoms in the glass, yearning to please and observed over an hour, it gains a little meatiness. The palate is medium-bodied and nicely balanced with its truffle-laced black fruit and a pleasant salinity. Yes, it is a little masculine and stoic compared to other vintages of Le Pin, but this classically styled wine will please those who prefer their Pomerols to be well-mannered and not too brash. A classicist Le Pin. Tasted July 2014.

This wine has developed nicely in the bottle. The color is a deep ruby with purple nuances. The aggressive oakiness has melted away to reveal plenty of pain grille and sweet, rich black cherries, black currants, and a touch of prunes. Chocolatey and rich, this medium to full-bodied, super-concentrated Le Pin possesses more structure and tannin than is noticeable in many vintages. It is still a beautifully plump, hedonistic wine. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2010. Last tasted 11/97