Magdelaine 1990

Tasted in Burgundy from a magnum acquired on release, the 1990 Château Magdelaine is what you describe as ‘classic’ Saint Emilion—the kind produced in smaller and smaller quantities (and in this particular case, not at all). It has a clear, dark garnet color. The nose is forward with black fruit, cedar, wet woodland and tobacco aromas that actually give it a Left Bank allure. The palate is very well balanced with fine tannins. For a 1990 Right Bank, it shows surprising structure and reserve, to the point where you would justifiably argue that it actually needs more time. Don’t be afraid to open bottles of this lovely Saint Emilion now, but don’t feel afraid to store larger formats for many more years.