Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 90 points

Dwarfed by its younger sibling, the 1990, the 1989 Chateau Margaux has a dark plum/garnet color and a big, sweet nose of new saddle leather, toasty oak, and weedy black cherry and cassis fruit. The wine is medium-bodied, with relatively elevated tannins, outstanding concentration and purity, but a somewhat clipped as well as compressed finish. This certainly outstanding wine has put on a bit of weight in its evolution in the bottle, but it is hardly one of the most profound efforts from Chateau Margaux. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025. Last tasted, 10/02.

Review date: January 2003

JamesSuckling.com: 91 points

I find this a little austere with mineral, tar, and currant character. It?s a little subdued. Full and silky on the palate, it?s firm and bright, even tight. Served from imperial bottle.

Review date: March 2012