The 1989 vintage has famously reached its peak plateau of maturity, but it splits opinion among top wine critics:

The Generous View: Proponents like James Suckling have scored it up to 98 points, praising its massive, opulent structure layered with freshly picked blackberries, dark mint chocolate, domineering eucalyptus, and fat, rounded tannins.

The Restrained View: Other critics find it a bit "old school" or foursquare, showing prominent herbal undertones. It boasts a heavily savory nose of cedarwood, sweet tobacco leaves, cigar box, licorice, and white pepper.

Palate & Texture: It hits the palate with a round, medium-bodied entry. The tannins are beautifully softened and fully melted, yielding to a long, clean, slightly leafy and spicy cassis finish.

Drink Window: It is drinking beautifully right now. Well-cellared bottles will continue to hold their composure comfortably through 2035–2040.