Palmer: 1961 Vs 2018

"History does not repeat itself, but it rhymes." Heard of that one before? The wine world is likely seeing its illustration in Château Palmer 2018, which was released earlier today.  "Sold out" is the universal response from our friends in Bordeaux to anyone inquiring about availability.  It is often followed by another Q&A: "Alter Ego?  None was produced".  If that sounds like inside baseball, allow me to elaborate.

Friends who know me also know that I am a big fan of Château Margaux - one of the iconic First Growth names that I do not hesitate to purchase nowadays.  However, have you heard of Neal Martin's description of Château Margaux 1961 before: "Destined to forever be in the shadow of the impeccable 1961 Palmer, the 1961 Château Margaux remains an attractive wine, if not one that reached its full potential." (Rated 86 by RP initially, revised

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