This vintage is one of the standouts from a more structured, old-school Bordeaux year. It came out surprisingly bold for ’88—plenty of cassis, licorice, and oak when young, with a deep color and solid richness. Over time, it softened into something more elegant and classic Pauillac. If you’ve got a bottle still hanging around, it’s likely well past its peak, but if stored right, it might still be offering some tertiary charm—think leather, tobacco, earthy depth. Definitely a wine with history and character, though most bottles are probably in the “drink yesterday” category now.

The Wine Advocate | RP 91
Published: Jan 1, 2011

Tasted at The Ledbury Bordeaux-themed lunch. Consistent notes as previous occasions: as straight down the line classic Pauillac with an unashamed graphite-scented nose, a rather tannic but very well balanced palate with a surfeit of freshness, crisp and “energetic” on the finish, even if it refuses to take off its tie and blazer. Tasted May 2010.

Vivino | Vivino 4.4

A wine of great personality with fresh red-fruit and blackberry scents. It is quick to express itself on the palate, rolling out its assertive, powerful character and rich flesh. The finish is very long-lasting, with dense, precise tannins. A finely-balanced wine of substance with firm structure and body.

Pichonbaron.com 

Our Grand Vin Chateau Pichon Baron 2nd Grand Cru Classe in 1855 comes from the very oldest vines grown on the historic plots of the estate. This authentic Pauillac offers an amazing sensory experience with its black fruit flavours and spicy hints. Chateau Pichon Baron shows great elegance, intensity and exceptional length on the palate. It is a wine that improves year after year and can age for over 40 years in the cellar.

Technical Specs

Alcohol: 12.5% (reported figures vary between 12% and 13%)
Closure: Natural Cork
Vintage: 1988
Oak: French oak barrels; exact new-oak proportion not confirmed
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot; indicative blend approximately 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot
Vineyard: Château Pichon Longueville Baron estate, Pauillac; deep Garonne gravel soils over clay subsoil
Harvest: 1988; exact harvest dates not confirmed
Vinification: Traditional Bordeaux vinification, with careful extraction and parcel selection
Ageing: Aged in French oak barrels; exact duration for this vintage not confirmed
Winemaker: Jean-Michel Cazes (estate management)
Region: Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
Classification: 2ème Grand Cru Classé (Second Growth), 1855 Classification

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Decanting: Stand upright for 24 hours before opening. Decant very gently shortly before serving to separate sediment; avoid prolonged aeration
Food Pairing: Roast beef, lamb, venison, duck, game birds, braised beef, mushrooms, truffle dishes and mature hard cheeses