Chateau Pichon Baron   Pichon Baron

1998 Pichon Baron

By Chateau Pichon Baron

1998 Pichon Baron from Château Pichon Baron, Pauillac, Bordeaux

The remarkable 1998 Pichon Baron is a testament to the resilience and depth of Pauillac terroir. Those with keen palates who have followed the trajectory of Château Pichon Baron are familiar with the deep-seated power innate to its wines. Yet, in 1998, Pichon Baron has transmitted this strength through layers of striking complexity and elegance, a vintage clearly graced by the benevolence of nature.

 

An Apex of Investment-worthy Viniculture

In 1998, the weather patterns over Bordeaux inscribed a signature that vintners could only wish to harness each year—an optimal balance between sunny days and cool nights preceding the harvest, letting the grapes mature with a precision that sculpted both richness and finesse in their tannins. The tangible benefit of these conditions is encapsulated in Pichon Baron, which serves as a hallmark investment wine for connoisseurs and investors alike.

 

Distinct Character, Peerless Pedigree

Pichon Baron delivers an aromatic expression replete with blackberries, cassis, and a whisper of earthy truffle notes—a preview of its depth before it unfurls on the palate. The richness embodied by Pauillac's celebrated Cabernet Sauvignon is met with a backbone provided by Merlot’s suppleness. With a harmonious structure championed by an impeccable élevage, this vintage resonates with a finish that holds as resolutely as the storied reputation of Château Pichon Baron.

Despite approaching its quarter-century mark, the 1998 Pichon Baron continues to exude vibrancy and suggests maturity that invites further aging potential. Its robust profile is softened by velvety tannins, hinting that it stands confidently at the crest of its evolution - presenting an enticing opportunity for wine investment portfolios.

 

Wine Investment Elegance

In conclusion, the 1998 Pichon Baron is one of poised sophistication, with a storied pedigree that recommends it highly to collectors and investors seeking to add regal Bordeaux elegance to their holdings. Echoing the sentiments that many connoisseurs hold for the breathtaking Château itself, this wine captures both history and prestige within its bottles – the pure essence of vinous opulence waiting to be unleashed. The sophistication and complexity of this particular vintage make it a distinguished focal point for any serious discussion on prime wine investments in the realm of Bordeaux.

Current market price

£1,500.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

125

Scores and tasting notes

92

Tasted at the London Pichon-Baron off-line. This is a great '98 Pauillac. A deep garnet colour. The bouquet is ebullient, ripe, a sense of 'constrained exoticism' with blackberry, creme de cassis and sandalwood. It might lacks a little finesse but it is a captivating perfume. The palate is developing nicely quite primal, good structure with a touch of dried herbs and mint. Drive by pure, cedary Cabernet Sauvignon and a tarry, slight austere finish. Impressive, but give it time. Drink 2011-2020. Tasted May 2009.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Sep 2009

90

A definitive Pauillac, the dense purple-colored 1998 Pichon-Baron offers up a sweet bouquet of licorice, smoke, asphalt, blackberries, and creme de cassis. In the mouth, the wine is elegant rather than full-blown, with medium body, sweet fruit, nice texture on the attack and mid-palate, and moderate tannin in the long finish. No, this is not as profound as the 1996, 1990 or 1989, but it is an outstanding effort. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #134 April 2001

Vintage performance