Chateau Petrus 1988

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (91)

The 1988 Petrus is reassuringly outstanding, but it is not a prodigious Petrus. The healthy dark ruby/purple color is followed by a young, backward wine with high tannin levels, medium body, and an inner-core of sweet, ripe fruit. It needs another 7-10 years of cellaring. The notes for this wine are taken from the description of Series VI - Flight A of the 1995 tasting conducted in Munich by Helga and Hardy Rodenstock.

Winespectator (94)

Very fine Pétrus. Gorgeous aromas of violet and berry and hints of new oak. Full-bodied, with racy, silky tannins and a long, palate-caressing finish.--1988 Bordeaux horizontal. Best after 2003. –JS

Jancis Robinson (18.50)

Jean-Michel Cazes was rather dismissive of this treasure exhumed from his cellar ('ce n'est pas grandiose') but I loved it – especially since it had not a trace of 1988's stubbornness about it. Sweet, round and rich, it was initially served blind and was obviously something exceptional. Lovely cleanliness as well as flattering sumptuousness. Tannins difficult to discern. Acidity well integrated. .

Rene Gabriel (18)

Rene Gabriel rates this wine 18/20 points.