Château Palmer Margaux 1998

Many refer to this 3rd growth Margaux as being second best in its appellation, only behind the 1st growth producer Château Margaux. And we can see why. A tantalizing array of fruits, including black currant, black cherry and blackberry coulis on the finish. Cigar box may be the most notable spice on the palate, but dill, stones and sand all make their way onto this silky-bodied claret. It's a little disjointed now, as if it's currently going through puberty, and will gradually shed its youthfulness over then next 10 years. If I had a second bottle, I'd open it for a special occasion in 2021, maybe for a pet's birthday (so I can toast to the guest of honor and drink all of the wine myself).