1989 La Fleur de Gay

Given the limited production of less than 1,500 cases per year, this is one of the most difficult Pomerols to obtain. The 1989 performed up to my high expectations. The wine remains backward and unformed, especially for a 1989, but it reveals a nearly opaque purple color, and a sweet, pure nose of black-raspberries, cassis, licorice, violets, and minerals nicely dosed with high quality new oak. There is great fruit on the palate, layers of richness, medium to full body, and fabulous harmony and precision. Given its superb intensity and elegant personality, it is a dazzling example of winemaking. The wine's finish goes on for at least 35-40 seconds. Unlike many 1989 Pomerols, this wine requires 2-3 more years of cellaring; it should keep through the first 15+ years of the next century. Feb 1997, www.robertparker.com