Proprietor Bruno Borie noted this was a somewhat unusual blend this year: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot. After this vintage, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot would no longer be included in the blend. Medium to deep brick in color, the 1995 Ducru-Beaucaillou explodes from the glass with bombastic notes of Indian spices, plum preserves, fruitcake and dried figs with nuances of potpourri, star anise, bouquet garni and espresso. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is chock-full of exotic spices and preserved black fruits, framed by firm, finely grained tannins and bold freshness, finishing with epic impact and length. Mature and drinking well now, there's still a good 12-15 years of kick left in this thoroughbred. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown

The 1995 Ducru-Beaucaillou, matured in two-thirds new oak, has a very refined bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, rose petal and cedar aromas, very focused and sophisticated. The palate is well balanced with sour red cherries, balsamic and cedar notes, vibrant and full of energy, though you might well argue it doesn’t quite have the panache and complexity of ensuing vintages on the finish. But it is certainly ageing well and is drinking perfectly now. Tasted at the Ducru Beaucaillou vertical at the château. -- Neal Martin

Subtle yet aromatic character of Indian spices, currants and dried cherries. Full-bodied, with super well-integrated tannins and a long, caressing finish. Wonderful texture. Classy and structured. Long. This was wine of the year in 1998; well deserved.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2009. – JS

This was served blind alongside Ridge Monte Bello 1995 and seemed much fresher. The palate had real life and energy to it and the finish was dry and lively after some fruit that was pretty rich for bordeaux. Great balance - Bordeaux's calling card? 17.5/20

One of the better wines from what has become a difficult vintage, due to the strong, harsh nature of the tannins, here you find a wine that is classic in nature. Firm, slightly rustic and with a touch of green in the nose and palate, this is what old-school, classic Bordeaux is all about. The wine is full-bodied and loaded with fruit, but rustic nature of the tannins intrude on what otherwise would have been a nice party. Read more at:https://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/wine-tasting-note/?vintage=1995&wine=Chateau%20Ducru-Beaucaillou