Critics Ratings

‘The 1990 Petrus remains incredibly young, one of the least evolved wines of the vintage (along with Montrose and Beausejour-Duffau). This dense ruby/purple-colored effort is beginning to hint at the massive richness and full-bodied intensity lurking beneath its wall of tannin. The vintage’s sweetness, low acidity, and velvety tannins are present in abundance, and the wine is massive in the mouth as well as incredibly pure and well-delineated. I thought it would be drinkable by now, but it appears another 5-10 years will pass before it begins to reach its plateau of maturity. This wine is capable of lasting at least four more decades. An incredible achievement!’ – Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, 100/100 (Jun 2009)

‘The 1990 Petrus is a great Pomerol, albeit one that has levelled off in terms of quality during its evolution, so that there is now a clear gap between itself and the 1989. This bottle has that same gorgeous raspberry and mulberry nose, sensual and warm, the eucalyptus component a little more noticeable vis-a-vis previous bottles. The palate is smooth and sensual, fatter than the 1989 if not quite as well defined. It boasts unerring purity and great consistency, a Rubenesque Petrus that is a joy to behold.’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 97/100 (Dec 2019)

‘Bright crimson. Surprisingly light nose when just decanted with a hint of putty. Something like woodsmoke ashes. Big, sweet and mouthfilling. Almost tarry. Much bigger and bolder than any other 1990. Massive constitution but some slightly dry tannins on the finish. A little bit more like an assault than a caress (compared to the Cheval Blanc 1990). Should be one of the longest living 1990s.’ – Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, 18.5/20 (Oct 2010)

‘That hasn't changed. A classy wine that's almost as great as the awesome '89. Expressive and sophisticated, with wonderful ripe fruit and vanilla aromas. The palate is extremely silky with superb flavor concentration. It's very muscular but refined and toned. Still too young to open. Best after 2007.’ – Wine Spectator, 98/100 (Oct 2004)

Provenance

Private Client