1996 Château Talbot
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Tasting notes
Delicious, yet more proof of how this corner of Bordeaux excelled in 1996, and the drinking window is still going strong. Grilled earth, tobacco leaf, crushed mint, dried roses, liqourice, brambled autumnal fruit, fine tannins with a trace of dryness, but full of pleasure. Christian Hostein cellar master, 50% new oak for ageing.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 1996 Talbot comes from an era when I think this Saint-Julien lost its way a little. It was picked from 16 September until 12 October with intermittent breaks to avoid showers. It has a relatively light bouquet with tertiary black fruit, cedar and incense, gaining a little vigour with aeration although it never fully lets go. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit on the entry, balanced but light in style with a touch of soy and black pepper towards the finish. It is certainly classic in style but it just needs more backbone and stuffing. Tasted at the centenary Château Talbot vertical at the property.
Mid crimson with a ruby rim. Marked evolution on the nose in low intensity. Mellow start and great lift and sweetness. A slight hint of rusty nails but overall a very nice glass of wine. (JR)
About the producer
Quality has not necessarily always lived up to this property’s Fourth Growth status, however there have been significant improvements in recent years, with a sustainable focus in the vineyard, and new winery and cellar.