1961 Rauzan Gassies

Certainly not to be passed by if one should come your way, the Rauzan-Gassies is, however, less successful in this vintage than many of its second-growth peers. Dark ruby, with significant browning at the edges, the wine has an open-knit, fully mature, spicy, oaky, plummy, toffee-scented bouquet, moderately rich, soft, fruity flavors, and a supple, velvety finish. It is very attractive, but lighter in style than most 1961s. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 4/83. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com

Robert Parker    Score: 85/100