Chateau Canon La Gaffeliere 1998

WEINWISSER: "Extrem tiefe Farbe, Violett-Schwarz. In der Nase sehr verschlossenes, aber kompaktes Bouquet, Rauchtöne, schöner, reifer Ausdruck von würzigem, aber auch fruchtbringendem Cabernet Franc, sanft hölzern durch den Ein-satz der neuen Holzcuviers, die Tiefgründigkeit des Weines überwiegt. Im Gaumen extrem saftig, feinstgliedrige, fast schon gebundene Tannintextur, völlig harmonisch und elegant, langes Rückaroma. Einer der allerfeinsten und zugleich grössten Weine, die Stephan von Neipperg je gemacht hat; den nachdegustierten 97er Canon-la-Gaffelière haben wir gleichzeitig von 18 auf ebenfalls 19 Punkte aufgewertet."

WINE SPECTATOR: "This is very fresh and multidimensional on the nose and palate. Aromas of blackberry, grilled meat and fresh mushrooms follow through to a full body, with a solid core of firm yet silky tannins and a chocolate, berry and meaty finish. Luscious and opulent. Tight and beautiful.—'88/'98 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2008). Best after 2011. 4,580 cases made. "

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "This saturated purple-colored 1998 offers sumptuous aromas of prunes, blueberries, overripe black cherries, chocolate, coffee, and spicy new oak. Full-bodied, opulent, and expressive, this flamboyant/ostentatious effort is crammed with glycerin and extract. The tannin is sweet in this accessible, multilayered 1998. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2022."

JANCIS ROBINSON: "Very deep healthy crimson – still with notes of blue. Very rich and seductive on the nose. Fully evolved nose – very well married elements. Complete and impressive. Very fine tannins underneath should keep it going. Long. Well constructed. Rich, full and dramatic."

THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "Probably fully mature, and at 20, that is right on target. On the nose, the wine offers roses, cigar wrapper, plum, cherry, smoke and herbs. Round, soft and lush, there is a minor hint of green in the otherwise, fruit and earth filled finish. Popped and poured, the wine was close to its apogee from start to finish."