96

Neal Martin

Vinous

The 1990 Lafleur might not reach the ethereal heights of the 1989, yet certainly in magnum format, it is not far behind. It is cut from a different cloth than the 1989 with a more opulent bouquet of ravishing raspberry and blueberry fruit, chestnut, meat juices and violets. Perhaps there is just a tiny bit of Brettanomyces? The palate is concentrated and more generous/flamboyant than the 1989 with saturated tannins, a touch of cracked black pepper and a cheeky peppermint note on the finish. Maybe it lacks the sophistication of the 1989 but the 1990 just doesn't care. Nor will you. Tasted from ex-château magnum at Kate & Kon's 40-year vertical in Austria. 07/2025

97+

Robert M. Parker, Jr.

Robert Parker/Wine Advocate

This wine goes from strength to strength, and is developing even better than I initially expected. More backward than most of the big, Cabernet Sauvignon-based 1990 Medocs, it is full-bodied and viscous, but not as thick or oily as the 1982 can be. The 1990's fresh, pure black raspberry, incense, and minerality characteristics result in a young, legendary wine. Still deep ruby/purple to the rim as well as extraordinarily intense, it is 4-10 years away from full maturity, and should evolve for another 30+ years. It is an amazing achievement! Release price: ($1800.00/case) 06/2009