1989 Chateau le Gay
By Chateau Le Gay
1989 Chateau le Gay from Chateau Le Gay, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 1989 Chateau le Gay from Chateau Le Gay in Pomerol encapsulates a symphony of vinous perfection that yearns for recognition among Bordeaux connoisseurs and fine wine investors alike. One must consider the unique meteorological alchemy of 1989 - a season that straddled both vitality and ripened restraint, leading to a vintage brimming with complexity and longevity.
Vintage Vibrance: A Testament to Temporal Terroir
Indeed, the 1989 Pomerol vintage stands as one of those celestial alignments where nature conspired to bestow us with grapes that were nurtured to the apex of their potential. As a result, the 1989 Chateau le Gay emerges as a testament to a year when temperate spring gave way to an exceptionally warm and dry summer, allowing for impeccable fruit maturation without overripeness—a rare ballet of balance.
A Resplendent Rendition from Pomerol's Past
In the glass, this exquisite artistry is revealed through its still-vibrant, garnet hue and an aromatic palette that sings with plums, truffles, and a subtle whisper of anise. Blended masterfully from Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine delivers a textural richness draped elegantly over a frame that remains robust despite over three decades in bottle. On the palate, this particular tour de force balances opulent fruit with fine-grained tannins, reaching into an extensive finish that unfurls with patience and grace.
For enthusiasts charting the course of vintages and vineyards across the decades, the 1989 Chateau le Gay exemplifies an investment-grade claret that continues to capture imaginations. Its undoubted pedigree and scarce availability make it not only a cornerstone in any serious collection but also present it as an investment opportunity with appreciable promise.
Investor's Epilogue: The Connoisseur's Chronicle
Anchored by its historical significance and bolstered by its present poise, the 1989 Chateau le Gay is one such collectable vintage that deftly demonstrates Pomerol's capacity for finesse under nature's nurturing hand. Astute collectors would do well to consider diversifying their portfolio with such storied bottles—wines which seem to become more eloquent as they engage in silent dialogue with time itself.
Market price (HKD)
HK$17,260.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
150.83
Scores and tasting notes
This wine seems to get better and better, and is certainly the only great Le Gay of recent years. This dark ruby/purple-colored wine has a nose of blueberries, minerals, and white flowers. The wine shows plenty of sweetness, real opulence, high tannins, but sweeter, more civilized tannins than most Le Gays tend to possess. It is a very muscular, full-bodied style of wine that should age effortlessly for another 15-20 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2020. Last tasted, 11/02.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 31 December 2002