1961 Pichon Comtesse

In 1978, I had the 1961 Pichon Lalande from a magnum in which it was quite unready, but since then I have had the wine several times from a regular bottle (most recently at the chateau in March 1988) where it was equally impressive, and approaching its apogee. The wine is dark, almost opaque in color, with a huge, ripe, plummy bouquet and savory scents of cedar, toffee, and chocolate. The 1961 Pichon Lalande is rich, full bodied, viscous, and deep on the palate with a luscious, silky finish. Stylistically, it is reminiscent of the 1982 and 1989. This wine will continue to drink well for another decade. Anticipated maturity: Now-2000. Last tasted, 3/88. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com