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Tasting notes
The 1997 RunRig is meatier and more substantial than the 1995 and the 1996 tasted alongside. 1997 was a hot, dry year, and the wine shows that heat in its density and weight in the mouth. However, the palate is fresh, and the acidity is pronounced; despite it, the fruit feels in step with it all. There is harmony here. The tannins are chalky and finely wrought, and the length of flavor spools out through the long finish. This remains firm, and it will be this way for some time. 14.3% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1997 Run Rig is the most mature of this group. More evolved than the 1996 or the potentially perfect 1998, the 1997 displays beautiful floral, blackberry, charcoal, and incense characteristics, a full-bodied opulence, a seamless, voluptuous mouthfeel, and hints of caramelized black fruits and herbs. It is a beauty of complexity, elegance, and substance. Drink it over the next 5-10 years. Jun 2009, www.robertparker.com
Saturated black-ruby. Liqueur-like aromas of cassis, graphite, bitter chocolate and charred oak. Like liquid silk in the mouth: superconcentrated, creamy and thick, with extraordinary sweetness that refuses to go sloppy. This may be more a meal substitute than an accompaniment to food, but it boasts incredible texture and chocolatey length. Has a firm tannic spine.