Château Haut Brion, Ch. Haut Brion 1990, 100/100 Falstaff

98 / 100 Robert Parker
In terms of the brilliant complexity and nobility of the aromatics, scorched earth, black currants, plums, charcoal, cedar, and spices, the 1990 offers an aromatic explosion that is unparalleled. It is always fascinating to taste this wine next to the 1989, which is a monumental effort, but much more backward and denser, without the aromatic complexity of the 1990. The 1990 put on weight after bottling, and is currently rich, full-bodied, opulent, even flamboyant by Haut Brion’s standards. It is an incredible expression of a noble terroir in a top vintage. While it has been fully mature for a number of years, it does not reveal any bricking at the edge, and I suspect it will stay at this level for another 10-15 years ... but why wait? It is irresistible now. Release price: ($1200.00/case)
Wine Advocate #183 Jun 2009

94 / 100 Wine Spectator
Racy and refined, with firm, silky tannins and a long finish. Full-bodied. Mushrooms and ripe fruit on the palate. Needs some bottle age to open.
http://www.winespectator.com/wine/detail/source/search/not..

18.5 / 20 Jancis Robinson
Gorgeous, lifted, nervy - just right for current drinking, though I'm sure it will last beautifully too. Absolutely unmistakably Haut-Brion with warm bricks in abundance. Not heavy. Tannins well melded. Quite a contrast to the youthful Latour 1990 served alongside.
http://www.jancisrobinson.com/tastings/search?perpage=20&c..