The 1989 growing season was warm in Margaux, leading to one of the earliest vintages of the century for Château Palmer, with the end result being a wine of exceptional quality. The 1989 Château Palmer is a simply magical wine, which clearly depicts the pedigree of this grand Château and the quality that can be achieved in a historic vintage like ’89. Today, this magnificent blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc offers striking aromas of black cherries, cassis, sweet pipe tobacco, roasted coffee, tar and spring florals, which are just about impossible to resist. It still shows plenty of weight on the palate, with a seamless, velvety texture and remarkable balance as it expands beautifully on to the supple finish where it leaves behind sweet fruits, tobacco and espresso notes. Today, after 25 years, this is a complete knockout and still looks to have some wonderful years ahead. (JD)