1998 Lafleur
By Chateau Lafleur
1998 Lafleur from Chateau Lafleur, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Embarking upon a critique of the 1998 Lafleur from Chateau Lafleur is akin to narrating an odyssey through the storied landscape of Pomerol, famed for its exceptional blends. In this endeavour, one does not simply taste but explores the nuances of a vintage that has etched itself into the annals of fine wine history.
Precocity of a Renowned Terroir
The 1998 vintage in Bordeaux is often lauded for its meritorious climatic conditions—especially in Pomerol that led to considerable accolades. Such was the environment in which the 1998 Lafleur from Chateau Lafleur was born, flourishing amidst the optimal balance of sunshine and rainfall, which allowed for the grapes to attain superb maturity alongside unassailable structure.
Investment Calibre of a Legendary Vintage
For the astute wine investor, the innate quality of the 1998 Lafleur from Chateau Lafleur denotes a beacon of collectibility. It represents not merely a bottle but an appreciable asset, embedded with the potential for both sensory joy and financial merit. Complex yet harmonious, it conjures notes of truffled earth and ripe plums, interwoven with an aristocratic frame of cedar and dark cherry compote—a full-bodied resonance that is as evocative as it is profound.
As this formidable nectar crosses two decades in bottle, it unveils a compelling saga—a testament to its impeccable provenance. On tasting, one is met with an all-encompassing tapestry that generates layers of dark fruit against a backdrop of refined tannins and an elegantly sustained finish. This equanimity positions the 1998 Lafleur from Chateau Lafleur as one of the pinnacles of investment-grade wines.
In summation, having withstood the crucible of time, this eminent expression from Bordeaux's fertile lands continues to unfurl its splendour with grace. Investing in such a vintage is thus to invest in an enduring parcel of viticultural magnificence—an addition that promises distinction within any connoisseur's portfolio.
Market price (SGD)
$12,720.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
544.29
Scores and tasting notes
This wine was incredibly tannic and backward from cask, but out of bottle it has shrugged off the excess tannin and seems to be developing far better than I thought it would. The color is dense/ruby purple, and the wine shows notes of sweet kirsch and blackberry liqueur, with a liquid minerality and a hint of violets. The wine is full-bodied, quite tannic, very dense and backward, but gorgeously concentrated, pure, and intense. This looks to be a classic Lafleur meant for significant long-term aging. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040+. Last tasted, 11/02.
Robert Parker Jr - Bordeaux Book, 4th Edition Jan 2003
Tasted from an ex-chateau bottle at the Lafleur vertical dinner at Attersee in Austria. I cannot believe how long it is since I last encountered this 1998 Lafleur! I am not quite as enthused as when I first tasted it back in 2004. Deep in colour, one notices a very rich, opulent bouquet that has a lactic tincture. This subsides in the glass to reveal touches of creme de cassis, blueberry and hints of dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied, rich and powerful, although analyzing the wine against the 2001, one notices less tension and delineation, more glycerine on the 1998. It is a 'sexy' Lafleur, but I am not quite sure if that fits comfortably with its signature style. I am sure others might like it more than myself and I would be able to understand why, even if I would not agree. Tasted June 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Sep 2013