Stephen Tanzer's IWC
Full ruby. Subtle, extremely complex nose melds cassis, bitter cherry, licorice, menthol and gunflint. Great purity and class in the middle palate, though extremely young and not currently showing the texture of the unfinished '99. But this is utterly compelling syrah, finishing with superb length and extremely fine tannins for the vintage. The '99 may be more pliant in the early going thanks to its sweeter tannins, but I'm not yet convinced it will surpass this brilliant '98.
Wine Spectator
Exciting. Thick, rich texture with elegant, fresh blackberry flavors. Displays wonderful ripe fruit, and it takes a dig into the mineral soil to extract a balanced whole with an earthy subtext. Full-bodied, with a tannic but balanced and powerful finish. Best from 2005 through 2015.
Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
The 1998 Hermitage rouge is a tannic, backward, large-scaled, dense ruby/purple-colored wine with high tannin, sensational extract, and formidable power and length. It needs 5-10 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.
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