I have had significant bottle variation with the '98 Richebourg that have ranged from excellent to unacceptable as some examples have displayed significant levels of brett or reduction. The best bottles possess a gorgeously scented nose that is beginning to exhibit significant secondary development along with a wonderful array of spice, floral and Asian-style tea elements. The sleek, muscular, concentrated and powerful big-bodied flavors brim with both ample amounts of dry extract and minerality, all wrapped in a powerful if ever-so-mildly rustic finish. To my taste, this is still positively evolving even though it could certainly be enjoyed now. By contrast, other bottles have displayed a surprisingly cloudy appearance, even when decanted, was confirmed by either noticeable reduction and/or brett. Eventually spice, cherry and soft secondary aromas begin to appear that are in keeping with the attractively mineral-driven middle weight flavors that are not only elegant but almost lacy on the mid-palate though the natural taut muscularity shows up on the delicious, intense and moderately grippy finish. My scores have ranged from 93 (at best) to Not Rated.

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