CRITIC REVIEWS
Neal Martin
The 1997 Palmer came from two bottles, the first corked. It was the first vintage where they stopped using Cabernet Franc in the blend when it was replaced with Petit Verdot. The second is perfectly sound on the nose, perhaps with a little more fruit intensity than the 2004, with blackberry, crushed violet, iris and undergrowth. The palate is medium-bodied with a decent body, though it dips in the middle. An odd dark chocolate element to this wine (possibly from the oak) just muddles the finish. Drinking perfectly now. Tasted at 67 Pall Mall.
Neal Martin
Tasted three of four times. In February 2004: slight again on the rim. The nose seems to have aged with meaty, leathery notes and hot bricks. The palate has good depth, wild strawberry and saddle leather. The finish is a bit weaker than I remembered but still a good Palmer 1997.

