A fully mature but absolutely stunning nose of spice, game, leather, earth, clove, hoisin and just the right amount of sous bois combines with rich, full and powerful medium full flavors that remain a picture perfect model of style and grace, all wrapped in simply unbelievable length. This is a genuinely great wine in every respect with none of the chunky tannins that some '45s still display today. Rather, the harmony and purity of expression are remarkable as is how youthful this wine remains. Well stored examples will last another 30 years, perhaps longer. A monument. - BH
BH96November 2004