Pomerol 1989, a hot year: The 1989 Château Lafleur is a red wine blended from Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes grown in vineyards operated by the Guinaudeau family. That summer was warm and dry, with temperatures rivaling those of 1949, making it the second-hottest year on record since records began, following only 1947. Thanks to this, the Merlot yielded a bountiful harvest.
This level of ripeness is fully evident in the glass and it features a full-bodied, robust flavor. The tannins are firm and envelop the palate, while the finish is chewy and long-lasting.
This vineyard is home to five distinct terroirs, and the grapes from each terroir undergo separate harvesting and winemaking processes before being blended. It is best enjoyed by 2040. It's fine to drink now, but letting it sit in a decanter for about two hours will soften the tannins.
Robert Parker (95)
Unfortunately, I have not seen as much of the 1989 Lafleur as I would have liked. In this particular tasting, the wine had closed down, and seemed somewhat muted and subdued when compared to my earlier notes. It is an enormous, full-bodied, tannic, powerful style of wine, with a dark purple color, an earthy, truffle, plum, licorice, and mineral-scented nose, full body, huge fruit and extract, and mouth-searing tannin in the finish. I would not open a bottle for 5-10 years. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2035.
Winespectator (97)
Very dark-ruby color. Cherry, blackberry and dark chocolate aromas. Full-bodied and powerful, with loads of tannins and chunky fruit. Closed, not giving away much right now; give it time. Typically muscular Lafleur.--1989 Bordeaux horizontal.
James Suckling (99)
I am almost always in awe of Lafleur and this is one of the best. This is so subtle at first, but then the enchanting aromas of olive leaves, ivy, licorice, tar and treacle wash over you. In your mouth it's as if you're putting exquisite, dusty velvet inside; the tannins make this wine round, fat and encompassing. Perhaps most startling of all is the freshness retained over the years despite the intense, dense fruit. It allows not only for a chewy finish, but one that makes you want to drink more. This has reached a plateau now and is perfect for drinking, though its tightly-knit structure implies yet more potential cellaring. I've always been a believer in the 1989 vintage, and Lafleur is one of the best. Decant two hours in advance.
Jancis Robinson (19)
Very rich and full and unctuous. Very long and fab.
Vinous (98)
The 1989 Lafleur is now asserting itself as the best of the 1988/19889/1990 triumvirate, and that means it is very good. The bouquet is utterly entrancing from first acquaintance, with effervescent and multi-faceted brambly red fruit, black truffle, earthenware and light roasted chestnut scents—quintessential Pomerol. The palate has plenty of concentration, though the passing years have tempered that, smoothing the tannins and manifesting a cornucopia of secondary dried blood and chestnut notes. I cannot remember bottles being quite as elegant as this magnum, and the peacock's tail on the finish is something to behold. Utterly sublime.
Rene Gabriel (19)
Rene Gabriel rates this wine 19/20 points.
