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Tasting notes
The 1966 continues to be one of the greatest examples of Palmer I have ever tasted. It is almost atypical for the 1966 vintage, which produced so many austere, angular wines. Not only rich and full, it is also delicate and loaded with complexity and finesse. This wine gets my nod as one of the best of the vintage, rivaled only by Latour and Lafleur. The haunting bouquet is similar to the 1961's. It reveals a plummy, mulberry-like fruitiness, exotic spices, licorice, and a hint of truffles. Medium-bodied, with a velvety richness, it has a long, ripe, lush finish, and enough grip and focus to continue to drink well for another decade. May 1996, www.robertparker.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
Tasted at the Chateau Palmer vertical in London, the 1966 Chateau Palmer has long been considered one of the finest wines of that vintage. Perhaps over-shadowed by the 1961, it remains a marvellous Margaux that continues to give pleasure. I tasted three different bottles of the 1966, two bottles side by side at the vertical tasting in London, though I have chosen a bottle subsequently tasted in Bordeaux the following March since this was served blind. The nose is wonderful: dusky black fruit, cedar, autumn woodland scents, perhaps more Saint Julien-like than the 1961, which is unequivocally "Margaux." The palate is medium-bodied with sufficient fruit, very fine tannins and perfectly judged acidity. It is a different character to the 1961. It does not have the same flair and profundity, but it is what you would describe as "proper Claret" - a little austere and conservative, but harmonious, fresh and amazingly long; and I noticed a nuanced ferrous element on the aftertaste. It has always been an outstanding Palmer that deserves respect and great bottles continue to shine. Tasted March 2016. May 2016, www.robertparker.com
The 1966 Palmer is simply remarkable. Boasting superb pliancy for a wine of its age, the 1966 is incredibly deep and polished throughout. The flavors are broad, dark and inviting. Jul 2015, www.vinous.com
About the producer
Ch. Palmer is one of the finest producers in Bordeaux. The Margaux Third Growth is known for its significant plantings of old-vine Merlot, typically representing a large portion of the blend and responsible for the generous and supple style Ch. Palmer is known for.