1998 Lafleur

7 Sep 2010: We decided to try a bottle of the 1998 Lafleur to see if it lived up to its expectation, as 1998 is generally regarded as a Right Bank year.  Bright ruby.  On the nose, we found a floral and herbaceous character, with blueberries, blackcurant leaf, violets, tobacco, cedar and a hint of bell pepper.  Some initial fruit was followed by floral, mineral, spicy, smoky and herbaceous notes on the palate.  Medium-bodied, softened tannins.  A somewhat lean and mineral style, with an evident greenness about it.  Lengthy finish but with just a hint of a bitterness to the finish.  Altogether a rather disappointing experience on this tasting.  16.5/20.