The 1995 Grand Puy-Lacoste was the winning bottle in the December Installment of Pick My Next Bottle. The wine was decanted for 1 hour and served with Christmas dinner.
The history of Grand-Puy-Lacoste is fascinating and dates back to the 16th century. The name Grand-Puy comes from the ancient term “puy” which means “hillock, small height”. The vineyard sits on outcrops with a terroir similar to that of the Médoc’s first growths. Since the 16th century the property was passed down from generation to generation. Grand Puy-Lacoste garnered a fifth growth designation in the 1855 classification. The Borie’s, bought the property in the 1920s. François-Xavier Borie is the current owner and winemaker at the estate.
Crimson in color with bricking at the edge of the glass. 13% ABV. Fantastic nose of red fruits, leather, cigar box and cedar. Medium body, warm and supple. Perfect balance of tannins, acids and fruit. Black currants, plums, tobacco and earth on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish with silky tannins in spades. I’ve been guilty of drinking many 95’s too early but this Grand Puy Lacoste seems to be in a really good spot. Tremendous Bordeaux from a polarizing vintage. Best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 94 points.
The 2016 Grand Puy-Lacoste is a good buy at the market price of $115 or so. Plan on being patient if you pick up some bottles.
Good to know TomI I have an untouched ’95 futures case and that status will now change based upon your note. We went through 3 cases of the ’85 @ purchased @ about $22/750in ’94&’95. Became big fans in the process.
I have been circling all of my ’95s warily.
Thank Doug. Definitely open a bottle and let me know what you think.