WS98: Fabulous red Burgundy--a true vin de terroir. The pure, crafty aromas jump out of the glass, titillating with rose petal, violet and tar notes. Fans out with the silkiest mouthfeel imaginable, delivering layers of wet earth, chalky stone, black currant and oak-infused spice. The tannins are amazingly classy, so it's enjoyable upon release, but clearly it should get even better in the cellar. *Ranked #23 on the Top 100 Wines of 1998* (PM)   (8/1998)

BH93: This too is reserved and restrained with an almost completely closed nose that reveals only glimpses of fresh black fruit even after extended aeration. The flavors however are rich and offer excellent detail and are underpinned by dense yet ripe tannins and good extract. I very much like the style of this though it is clearly for the patient and I suspect this will always have a rather strict personality. This has put on a bit of weight and a bit of richness since the big Richebourg tasting in '01 and appears to be better balanced than the prior bottle but otherwise, it is quite similar.   (11/2003)

VM93: Perfumed but shy nose hints at smoke and truffle. Then shockingly expressive in the mouth, with intensely spicy, musky raspberry and wild strawberry flavors. Really fills the mouth. Has more than enough fruit to support its powerful underlying structure. The longest of these '95s by far to this point; tannins are substantial but supple. A beautifully balanced wine that currently rather open-armed, in the words of de Villaine, but I expect it to go into a shell soon that may last several years. (ST)   (3/1998)