1988 Siran
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Tasting notes
The 1988 Siran is a real surprise on the nose and probably the best compared to 1998 and 2008 with blackberry, sous-bois , tobacco and light rose petals aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with good density considering the vintage. This really coats the mouth. It is fully matured with notes of black fruit and black tea while bay leaf, black pepper and tobacco tonalities become more pronounced towards the persistent finish. This bottle is better than the one tasted at the château a couple of years ago. Excellent. Tasted at the vertical retrospective at Château Siran.
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Neal Martin
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Tasted at the vertical tasting held at the property, the 1988 Château Siran, a blend of 45% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc, has a light autumnal leaf and briary-scented nose that seems innocuous at first, but opens nicely with aeration in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, very foursquare and masculine like many 1988s, though this one does not seem dry on the finish. It is stoic and correct. By no means the most enjoyable Margaux you will ever drink, yet you might appreciate its body and depth that remain sound. It's a bit tough, a word I noticed was used by Robert Parker, as well as austere, but I noticed how it mellowed with time in the glass and ended up quite enjoyable. Worth seeking out if you have a penchant for slightly dusty "classic" Claret. Tasted February 2016.
About the producer

In the south of Margaux, this property has 36 hectares of vines. There’s an unusually large proportion of Petit Verdot (13%) in the vineyard, something which the team feels adds finesse, concentration and a spicy finish to the wine.