Pape Clement 1989

In his 2010 tasting, Neal Martin was clearly impressed with the 1989 Pape Clement calling it a “decadent wine” with compelling aromatics and fine balance. He speaks about it in the same breath as fellow Pessac house Haut Brion’s titanic 1989, going so far as to suggest it as an alternative to that 100 pointer. Now beautifully mature and showing well, it is an overlooked gem from an excellent vintage that deserves to be snapped up while still available.

Elegant and well made. Color is medium-dark ruby. Aromas of dried cherries and licorice. Full-bodied and well structured, with compacted velvety tannins and a long aftertaste of chocolate and fruit and hints of earth.–1989 Bordeaux horizontal. Best after 2004. James Suckling, Wine Spectator 1999