Pavie Macquin - Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 1998

Vinous

96

byAntonio Gallonithe5/4/2020

The 1998 Pavie-Macquin is by far the most important wine of the 1990s at Pavie-Macquin. All of the signatures of the estate are present. A wine of textural depth and resonance, the 1998 captures all of the intensity this site is capable of. Dark red cherry fruit, kirsch, smoke and spice build in a stunning, riveting wine that hits all the right notes. It was a near-perfect growing season, with hot days, cool nights and enough dryness to concentrate the fruit but not overly stress the vines.

Wine Advocate

97

byLisa Perrotti-Brownthe5/31/2018

Pale to medium garnet-brick in color, the 1998 Pavie Macquin simply sings with incredibly pure, spritely notes of blueberry preserves, blackberry pie and black cherry compote, revealing loads of eucalyptus, mocha, dried lavender and Chinese five spice accents. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is has wonderfully seductive blue and black fruit layers, framed by velvety tannins and the perfect amount of freshness to create tantalizing tension, finishing with incredible length and depth. Effortlessly delicious and yet possessing plenty of subtext for intellectual stimulation, I just love where this compelling '98 is at right now! 2018 - 2040

Wine Advocate

95

byRobert Parkerthe7/29/2005

Ce vin d’un bleu-pourpre opaque est presque trop intense et trop richement extrait. Il s’en dégage de somptueuses senteurs de myrtille, de mûre et de cerise, auxquelles se mêlent des notes de fumé, de réglisse, de vanille et de truffe, le tout se fondant en un bouquet absolument irrésistible tant il est parfumé et explosif. L’ensemble, corsé et fabuleux de densité, se développe en bouche par paliers, révélant une complexité et une pureté hors du commun. Les tannins et l’alcool sont harmonieusement fondus dans l’ensemble. Le 1998 de Pavie Macquin est assurément l’un des vins les plus concentrés du millésime. Il recèle un potentiel extraordinaire, mais a requis de la patience.

Wine Advocate

95

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2001

Nearly exaggerated levels of intensity, extract, and richness are apparent in this opaque blue/purple-colored wine. Sumptuous aromas of blueberries, blackberries, and cherries combine with smoke, licorice, vanillin, and truffles to create a compelling aromatic explosion. The wine is fabulously dense, full-bodied, and layered, with multiple dimensions, gorgeous purity, and superbly integrated acidity as well as tannin. One of the most concentrated wines of the vintage, it possesses immense potential, but patience is required. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2030.

Wine Spectator

93

byJames Sucklingthe1/31/2001

Very new-wave style.Wonderfully attractive. Dark color. Gorgeous aromas of berry, violet and toasted oak. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and an intense fruity, chocolate aftertaste. Best after 2007.

Wine Advocate

93-96

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2000

This tasted fabulous last spring, exhibiting a personality reminiscent of the greatest vintages of Lafleur. Tasted twice in January, 2000, it confirmed all the promise exhibited last year. An opaque black/purple color is accompanied by aromas of overripe blueberries and blackberries, flowers, licorice, and minerals. Powerful, with fabulous concentration as well as an explosive finish, this profound wine is layered, long, and unbelievably promising. However, it is unyielding, so patience will be essential for prospective purchasers. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030. An amazing effort!

Wine Advocate

91-94

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/1999

I adored this wine. The estate's old vines have produced a wine with none of the razzle-dazzle ostentatiousness found in some of the new breed St.-Emilions. Fabulously concentrated, it possesses a nobility and grandeur that must be tasted to be believed. In short, this wine represents the essence of its vineyard. The 1998 may be the finest Pavie-Macquin yet produced. It manifests a saturated black/purple color, as well as astounding aromatics of blackberry, blueberry, and cassis fruit with whiffs of minerals and steel. A 1998 of extraordinary purity and great symmetry, its medium to full-bodied personality oozes with fruit and extract. This 1998 will require 4-6 years of cellaring, possibly longer depending on which direction the tannin goes. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020.