1979 CHÂTEAU PALMER 1979

(12-2015) Still deep crimson in the glass. Medium intense nose of damp cigar tobacco, red cedar wood (cigar box lining), forest floor, damp leathers, dried cranberry, and cured red meat. Intense aromas of cigarette smoke later on. In great shape on the palate with developed red and black cherry fruit, loads of blackberry, and ripe vine tomato. Cassis and a great smokiness throughout. In really healthy shape and in a terrific spot to enjoy right now. Very pleased.

(01-1998) Palmer's 1979 has turned out to be one of the better wines of the vintage, but it is not as profound as I had predicted. The wine has evolved slowly and is just now approaching full maturity. The color remains a deep ruby with some lightening at the edge. The moderately intense bouquet of black fruits, earth, cedar, and herbs is followed by a wine with excellent richness, sweet tannin for the vintage, crisp acidity, and a medium-bodied, stylish personality. The wine still has tannin in the finish, but the mid-palate and finish are silky and expansive.