Chateau Petrus   Petrus

1998 Petrus

By Chateau Petrus

1998 Petrus from Château Petrus, Pomerol, Bordeaux

In the constellation of Bordeaux's stars, the 1998 Petrus from Château Petrus shines with a particularly resplendent glow. This vintage stands as a testament to the principle that nature's caprices, when met with astute human artistry, can result in oenological marvels. A year marked by a cool early season which later bowed to radiant September sun, imprinted a unique signature upon this Pomerol titan.

 

A Vintage Defined by Patience and Precision

The moment one encounters the 1998 Petrus, it becomes immediately apparent that this is not merely another stellar offering but a matter of vinous fate. Against the backdrop of climatic challenges, the skilled vintners at Château Petrus have executed a symphony of precision and patience that’s encapsulated in each bottle. Yielding fewer grapes due to the late-ripening season, the concentration and intensity of fruit emerged triumphant—imbuing the vintage with remarkable potency.

On opening, the ample bouquet bespeaks of truffles entwined with ripe plum and black cherry notes. Time in the glass unfurls layers of complex earthy aromas that betoken the merlot-dominate assemblage's Pomerol heritage. Each sip reveals velvety tannins escorting a litany of dark fruit forward, while whispers of spice and tobacco peek through—an intricate dance on the palate.

 

Investment Worthy: Embracing The Elegance Of Age

The robust structure and graceful aging potential of the 1998 Petrus denote this as an intelligent acquisition for connoisseurs and investors alike. Age has done little but enhance its exquisite character; this translates not only into extraordinary drinking pleasure but also into significant investment appeal. Indubitably, it is one of those rare jewels in the viticultural crown that continues to command attention and respect on the global stage.

In conclusion, while vintage variation is an intrinsic part of Bordeaux's narrative tapestry, those who seek to understand the subtleties of time and terroir will find in the 1998 Petrus from Château Petrus an emblematic chapter—a year where challenge was met with triumph in Pomerol.

Current market price

£37,800.00

12x75cl

Highest score

100

POP score

1890

Scores and tasting notes

100

Stunning. So deep and characterful yet refined and subtle. It shows aromas of wet earth, mushrooms and dark fruits. Dry black olives come out as well. Full body, firm tannins and bright acidity. Very fresh and just opening up now. Walnut and chocolate character. So youthful. Decant two or three hours before serving.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, August 27th 2013

99

Tasted at The White Club's dinner in Basel. Another show-stopping performance from Petrus and easily the finest since the epochal 1990. Served blind no less, it has a deep, youthful, iridescent hue. The nose soars from the glass with precocious dark berries fruit, cedar and crushed stone that almost has a Left Bank intensity to it. The palate is medium-bodied but with incredible precision; layer upon layer of pure fruit

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Nov 2012

98

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

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 April 2001

Vintage performance