1998 Ch Pavie Macquin 1er Cru Grand Classe, St-Emilion

Pale to medium garnet-brick in color, the 1998 Pavie Macquin simply sings with incredibly pure, spritely notes of blueberry preserves, blackberry pie and black cherry compote, revealing loads of eucalyptus, mocha, dried lavender and Chinese five spice accents. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is has wonderfully seductive blue and black fruit layers, framed by velvety tannins and the perfect amount of freshness to create tantalizing tension, finishing with incredible length and depth. Effortlessly delicious and yet possessing plenty of subtext for intellectual stimulation, I just love where this compelling '98 is at right now!

97 points LPB robertparker.com May 2018

Perched on the limestone plateau of Saint Émilion, Château Pavie Macquin has long been one of the Right Bank's most admired estates. Named after Albert Macquin, the pioneering viticulturist credited with helping save Bordeaux's vineyards from phylloxera through the introduction of grafted rootstocks, the estate combines a remarkable history with an unwavering commitment to expressing its exceptional terroir. Today, Pavie Macquin stands among the leading Premier Grand Cru Classé properties, producing wines of depth, elegance and enduring character.

The 1998 vintage is regarded as one of the great Right Bank years, with Saint Émilion producing Merlot of outstanding concentration, balance and longevity. The estate's prized limestone and clay soils delivered fruit of exceptional richness while preserving freshness and structure. Nearly three decades of careful bottle ageing have transformed the wine, allowing its youthful power to evolve into layers of remarkable complexity and harmony.

Deep garnet with a brick tinged rim, the bouquet is wonderfully mature, revealing aromas of black cherry, plum conserve and dried fig intertwined with cedar, cigar box and truffle. As the wine opens, notes of forest floor, graphite, tobacco leaf and exotic spice emerge, adding further intrigue. The palate is silky and beautifully resolved, with mature dark fruits supported by velvety tannins and a refined mineral backbone. There is wonderful poise and quiet authority throughout, leading to a long, savoury finish marked by earthy complexity and lingering spice.

A magnificent partner for roast duck, slow braised beef cheeks, herb crusted lamb, wild mushroom dishes or aged Comté. Drinking beautifully today, this mature Saint Émilion continues to demonstrate why the finest Right Bank Bordeaux reward patience so generously.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2035.