Approaching full maturity, Pichon-Lalande’s1989 has a deep ruby/plum color with some lightening at the edge. The nose offers sweet plums and creme de cassis intermixed with vanilla and graphite. The wine is lush, medium to full-bodied, and layered with texture, low acidity, sweet tannin, and the hallmark purity and elegance this estate routinely produces. Some tannins remain, but this wine has reached its plateau of maturity, where it should remain for another 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2017. Last tasted, 5/02.

Intense black-purple red in colour, with a rich, jammy Pauillac nose. Well-structured and quite well-balanced on the palate, yet lacks a little fruit for its size. Will evolve with age.

Better on the nose than the palate as the wine is slowly losing its intensity and lush textures. The complex, truffle, tobacco, dark berry, cigar box and earthy aromas are a treat. But… (full tasting notes on the WCI website).