rated 98/100 or 99/100

Wines Rated 98/100 or 99/100

Wines rated 98 or 99 points by critics like Robert Parker are extremely high-quality wines, just shy of perfection. While they may not quite achieve the flawless balance and complexity of wines rated 100 points, they still represent exceptional craftsmanship and provide an extraordinary tasting experience. Here’s what defines a wine rated 98 or 99 points:

1. Exceptional Quality

• A wine rated 98 or 99 points is of outstanding quality. It’s usually extremely well-made, showcasing a refined expression of its terroir and grape variety. While not perfect, these wines are incredibly close to the ideal, offering an outstanding experience with very few (if any) flaws.
• These wines often come from top-tier estates or highly-regarded vineyards, with attention to every detail of production.

2. Intense Complexity and Depth

• Wines rated 98 or 99 points are known for their deep and complex flavors. They typically offer a wide range of aromas and tastes that evolve as you taste, with rich fruit, spices, floral notes, and sometimes earthy or mineral undertones.
• While not as multi-layered as 100-point wines, these wines still deliver a highly engaging and sophisticated profile that captivates the taster.

3. Near-Perfect Harmony

• These wines are generally well-balanced, with excellent integration of acidity, tannins, fruit, and alcohol. While a 100-point wine might have a more flawless or seamless balance, a wine rated 98 or 99 is still incredibly well-balanced and enjoyable.
• The structure is elegant and cohesive, and the wine delivers a refined drinking experience, though it may lack the slight "edge" that perfect wines often possess.

4. Impressive Aging Potential

• Wines rated 98 or 99 points are often built to age very well, although they may not have quite the same long-term aging potential as 100-point wines. With a few years of cellaring, these wines can continue to evolve and improve, gaining further complexity and finesse.
• They can be enjoyed relatively young, but they will also reward those who allow them to mature over time.

5. Long Finish and Memorable Experience

• While the finish may not be as exceptionally long or persistent as a 100-point wine, a wine rated 98 or 99 points will still have a long, satisfying finish that lingers on the palate.
• The experience is memorable, with lingering flavors that leave a lasting impression, reinforcing the wine’s exceptional quality.

6. Highly Prestigious and Sought After

• These wines come from highly regarded producers, and their rarity and prestige contribute to their appeal. While not as rare as 100-point wines, they are still highly sought after by collectors and wine enthusiasts.
• The price may be slightly lower than a perfect 100-point wine, but these wines are still considered prestigious and can command high prices, especially when from renowned estates.

Examples of Wines Rated 98/100 or 99/100:

• Château Latour 2010 (Bordeaux, France) – A magnificent Bordeaux, with deep complexity, outstanding balance, and an impressive aging potential.
• Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grands-Échézeaux 2015 (Burgundy, France) – A Pinot Noir with incredible depth and complexity, showcasing the elegance and finesse characteristic of this iconic vineyard.
• Penfolds Grange 2014 (Australia) – A powerful, complex Shiraz, with layers of dark fruit, spice, and well-integrated oak, offering a refined and satisfying finish.

Conclusion

Wines rated 98 or 99 points are very close to perfection and represent some of the highest levels of winemaking excellence. They offer remarkable complexity, balance, and depth, providing an unforgettable tasting experience. While not quite flawless, these wines are still extraordinary and are highly regarded by collectors and wine connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed in their youth or cellared for a few years, these wines deliver exceptional quality and are sure to leave a lasting impression.

by Robert Parker, Wine Spectator or Jancis Robinson