A powerful, tannic vin de garde, Soutard’s 1998 has a dark garnet color to the rim and a tight but promising nose of sweet black cherries, currants, roasted herbs, and a hint of truffle. The wine is medium to full-bodied, moderately high in tannin, very structured, delineated, and made in the typically no-compromise, traditional style that this chateau favors. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020. Last tasted, 1/03.