95-98

Stephen Tanzer

Vinous

Saturated ruby-purple. Knockout multidimensional aromas of pungent spice, raspberry, mulberry, minerals and iron filings; has a distinctly sappy, liqueur-like aspect. Pure sweetness supported by firm structure; a vibrant, extremely intensely flavored wine with an almost three-dimensional texture. Really explodes in the mouth. Finishes with firm but noble tannins and terrific grip. Potentially the greatest Petrus since the monumental 1990, and, along with L'Eglise-Clinet, a strong early candidate for wine-of-the-vintage honors.

98

Robert M. Parker, Jr.

Robert Parker/Wine Advocate

The 1998 Petrus is unquestionably a fabulous effort boasting a dense plum/purple color as well as an extraordinary nose of black fruits intermixed with caramel, mocha, and vanilla. Exceptionally pure, super-concentrated, and extremely full-bodied, with admirable underlying acidity as well as sweet tannin, it reveals a superb mid-palate in addition to the luxurious richness for which this great property is known. The finish lasts for 40-45 seconds. Patience will definitely be required. Production was 2,400 cases, about 1,600 cases less than normal. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2040