4.8 g/l total acidity; 12.7% alcohol): Dark ruby with a hint of garnet. Enticing aromas of dark plum, cassis, truffle, cedar and coffee. Rich, dense and suave, with ripe, rich flavors similar to the aromas. Finishes with a touch of alcoholic warmth and hints of underbrush, lead pencil and tobacco. The tannins are big and plush, but the wine nonetheless finishes with the classic, slightly austere mouthfeel typical of the 1981 vintage. I've always felt that this 1981 was a major success for Lynch-Bages and this bottle bears this out once again.

Ian D'Agata - Vinous Media (90)