Into neck

91 points Neal Martin, Wine Advocate

The 1996 Grand-Puy-Lacoste, now at 20 years old, has a very typical bouquet for this estate: correct, linear, well defined, conservative but intense, with pencil shavings, cedar and a subtle balsam aroma. The palate is medium-bodied with a firm structure and well-judged acidity that lends this 1996 impressive focus. It is totally and unashamedly classic in style, austere compared to other Pauillacs from this vintage, the kind of gentleman's claret that should grace a dinner table. (91 pts. Neal Martin, Wine Advocate #227, Oct. 2016)

93 points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

This is unquestionably a profound Grand-Puy-Lacoste, but it is excruciatingly backward. It reveals an essence of creme de cassis character which sets it apart from other Pauillacs. The wine is displaying plenty of tannin, huge body, and sweet black currant fruit intermixed with minerals and subtle oak. Massive, extremely structured, and with 25-30 or more years of longevity, this immensely-styled Grand-Puy-Lacoste will require 7-8 years of patience, perhaps longer. A superb, classic Pauillac. (93 pts. Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #122, Apr. 1999)