1996 Chasse-Spleen (Moulis)

Closed nose with a hint of berries and tobacco. The palate is tight and austere but seems to have some concentrated fruit hiding under the massive tannins. My preference definitely runs to the more approachable ’95 which was cheaper than the ’96 by about five bucks. If you buy some of this, give it a few years. ($24)

JD (3/99)