Robert Parker – 88

Tasted at the Fine Wine Experience’s Pichon-Lalande vertical in London. Quite a deep garnet core with crimson rim (wider than the 2000.) The nose is pleasant if lacking a little vigour: blackberry, sous-bois, a touch of cigar box and cedar, although it seems a little hollow in the middle, as if a major aroma has gone missing. The palate is medium-bodied, nicely balanced, quite elegant although lacking real fruit concentration and depth. Quite sharp, almost citrus acidity with strong tobacco flavours coming through on the mid-palate, leading to a slightly austere finish. It has a classic, traditional charm, although it is a medium-term Pichon rather than long, plus it lacks a little chutzpah. Drink now-2018. Tasted December 2008. [Neal Martin, 01/12/2008]

Anticipated maturity: 2009-2018