1998 Château du Tertre
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Tasting notes
The 1998 du Tertre was a small vintage due to frost in spring and some hail, so that only 30-hectolitres was produced and it was the first vintage fully under the control of the present owners. It is a blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. There is a little mustiness on the entry although soon clears to reveal rustic, undergrowth-infused black fruit. The palate is defined by slightly hard tannins and there is frankly insufficient fruit towards the attenuated finish. To be honest, I thought this might show better but I feel it is just a few years past its best. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
A sleeper of the vintage, this excellent Du Tertre is reminiscent of this estate's fine 1979. Sweet aromas of black cherry jam infused with creosote and grilled notes emerge from this dark plum/ruby/purple-colored 1998. Fragrant, with an expansive, rich person
About the producer
Until recently owned by the Albada Jelgersma family (along with Giscours), Ch. du Tertre is one of the oldest estates in the region – with a history stretching back 1,000 years. Classified as a Fifth Growth, its 54 hectares of vines sit on high gravel outcrops in Margaux.