Dark red core, almost no lightening at rim. Intense nose of cassis, coffee grounds and tar, with hints of mint and flowers and iodine. Full-bodied, ripe dark fruits, tannins starting to mellow, great balance and freshness, some developing complexity but hasn't yet reached the full-on tertiary stage yet. Destined for further improvement. Outstanding.

Also drank the '96 Cos and Pichon Lalande. Cos was a touch better, more complete. PL had an incredible nose and was starting to develop some tertiary notes, a bit closer to maturity than the others.

Dark red core, lightening at rim but no bricking. Fabulous nose of cassis, mushrooms, earth. Medium-full-bodied, cassis and fresh earth follow the palate, some beginning tertiary notes, tannins resolved, great balance, entering its plateau of maturity, should continue to drink well for many years. Outstanding.

Also drank the '96 Cos and Leoville Barton. This had the best nose of the night.

Dark red core, some lightening at rim. Cassis, earth, blood and iron on the nose. Full-bodied, cassis and cherry, tannins still evident but mellowing, great balance, some developing complexity but not yet fully there, just a very complete well-rounded feel with a long finish that didn't reveal any cracks in the facade. Expect even further improvement as it reaches full maturity. Outstanding. WOTN

Also drank the '96 Leoville Barton and Pichon Lalande. LB was youngest of the group. PL had an incredible nose and was starting to develop some tertiary notes, a bit closer to maturity than the others.

Dark red, minimal lightening at rim, took about 30 minutes to open up to show a nice nose of figs, raisins, dark fruits, great focus and body, not overly sweet, great balance, long smooth finish, should drink well for many years, outstanding!