1995 Le Pin – ‘it blew me away!’

Our man in Hong Kong, Martin Lea, enjoyed an evening – and a wine – this week that he won’t forget in a hurry:

As nights go in Hong Kong, I knew this had the potential to be a bit special.  From the moment the invitation was offered to dine at Otto E Mezo Italian Restaurant (the only three star Michelin outside of Italy) from a very generous Japanese client, who also promised to bring a bottle of '95 Le Pin, I found it hard to contain my excitement.  I also found it daunting trying to select a wine that could hold its own in such lofty company!  I opted for a bottle of '86 Haut Brion, which I knew was hitting its prime having tasted it a few months ago.  

The Haut Brion was impressive, although not quite in the same league as the previous bottle, highlighting the old adage that 'there are no great wines, only great bottles'.  A bottle of the delicious '90 Las Cases followed, whilst throughout we enjoyed a feast of truffles, Tajima short rib and homemade tagliolini.  We then moved on to the cheese... and the Le Pin.  This was my first experience of mature Le Pin and it did not disappoint, in fact it blew me away!  Now I know what all the fuss is about - It blew every other wine out of the water. An unforgettable experience.

The nose was unlike anything I had smelt before - aromas of cherry, beef oxo cubes and spearmint jumped out of the glass.  The palate was almost Burgundian, but had a richness and depth of flavour that only great wines possess.  If I was lucky enough to own a bottle (chance would be a fine thing), I would wait at least another 5 years as it certainly had potential to gain more complexity.  

I have heard stories of so called 'mythical wines' falling short of their legendary status; however this bottle far exceeded my expectations.  Where next - '89 Petrus?!

Have you had the pleasure of the 1995 Le Pin? Let us know what you thought.