RATING: 98 points
A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot, this wine represents only 34% of Lafite's total harvest. In a less-than-perfect Medoc vintage, it has been spectacular since birth, putting on more weight and flesh during its elevage. This opaque purple-colored 1998 is close to perfection. The spectacular nose of lead pencil, smoky, mineral, and black currant fruit soars majestically from the glass. The wine is ele-gant yet profoundly rich, revealing the essence of Lafite's character. The tannin is sweet, and the wine is spectacularly layered yet never heavy. The finish is sweet, superrich, yet im-peccably balanced and long (50+ seconds). Anticipated matu-rity: 2007-2035.