St Emilion/Pomerol - 1998

A really top vintage in St-Emilion and Pomerol, perhaps the vintage of the decade

Flowering took place in normal conditions, and after a cool start to the summer, August was hot and dry. Early September was wet, but the grape skins were thick and there was no rot. On the right bank, much of the merlot was ultra-ripe and was harvested from around 21st September, although there was a short pause when rain returned for a few days. By then most of the merlot had been picked. This is certainly the best vintage since 1990.

Conditions benefited the earlier ripening merlot in 1998 producing a really top vintage in St-Emilion and Pomerol, perhaps the vintage of the decade. The majority of merlot in Pomerol and a good percentage of that in St Emilion was harvested in ideal conditions the week of 21st-25th September. After a rainy weekend the rest was picked 28th-30th September. The cabernet was brought in 2nd-9th October. Pomerol has made some exceptional wines, to be ranked with the 1990s and 1982s and probably better than the more recent 2000s. St Emilion is more classic in style with lots of tannin and the impression of freshness emphasised by low pH levels. There is definite ageing potential here.