Parker about Château Margaux 1988
The 1988 Chateau Margaux is a wine that was always overshadowed by the successful pair of vintages and like many 1988s, appeared rather conservative and lacked flair. However, I was gobsmacked by the performance of this wine at 28 years of age. Deep and clean in color, the bouquet is quintessentially Chateau Margaux with blackberry, potpourri, cedar and violets. It has wonderful clarity. The palate is medium-bodied, fresh as a daisy on the entry with a killer line of acidity that offsets those vibrant black and red fruits. There is energy here, vivacity, as if this Château Margaux suddenly realized its true potential after all these years. While it does not possess the length of the 1989 or 1990, there is such pleasure bound into this wine that you care little about that. Maybe I underestimated this wine for many years or perhaps it is a simple case of a "late bloomer." While the 1988 might not belong in the top echelons of releases from this First Growth, it might be considered the undiscovered gem of that prosperous decade for the chateau.

Suckling over Château Margaux 1988
Mineral and blueberry skin and flowers on the nose. It's full-bodied with minerals and silky tannins. Dusty and very pretty. Refined finish. I remember this being harder but it's finally coming around.
Description
Land | France |
Region | Bordeaux Margaux |
Rebsorten | Cabernet Sauvignon 78%, Merlot 18%, Petit Verdot 4% |
Alkoholgehalt | 12.50% |
Füllstand | Into Neck |
Verschlußart | cork stopper |
Kennzeichnung | Contains sulphites |
Farbe | Red |
Inverkehrbringer | Château Margaux, 33460 Margaux Cantenac, France |
Charakter | Dry |
Servierempfehlung | Decant at 16-18°C |
Trinkempfehlung | 2016 - 2045 |
Parker Punkte | 93 |
Jahrgang | 1988 |
Bordeaux Margaux, France 🇫🇷

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Château Margaux 1988

The 1988 Château Margaux is an outstanding wine from one of the world's most renowned wineries, Château Margaux, located in the eponymous appellation in the Bordeaux region. The 1988 vintage is known for its classic characteristics and ability to age and evolve over decades.
The Château Margaux 1988 is a deep ruby red with light garnet highlights, indicating its maturity and development. The bouquet is complex and seductive, dominated by aromas of ripe blackcurrants, cherries, and plums. These fruity notes are complemented by subtle nuances of violet, cedarwood, and a hint of tobacco. With increasing aeration, additional aromas of truffle, leather, and a hint of spice unfold, lending the wine depth and complexity.
On the palate, the Château Margaux 1988 presents itself as a wine of impressive structure and elegance. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, resulting in a velvety mouthfeel. The fruit flavors continue on the palate, complemented by secondary notes such as vanilla, dried herbs, and a light mineral component. The lively acidity provides freshness and balance, keeping the wine dynamic despite its age.
The finish is long and persistent, characterized by a harmonious blend of fruit, oak, and tertiary aromas that slowly fade away, leaving a lasting impression. This wine displays remarkable complexity and depth, typical of Château Margaux and underscoring its high quality.