The 1998 Batard-Montrachet offers delightful aromas of rich, buttery pears, and a myriad of spices. Velvety-textured, thick, and plump, this powerful, extremely well-made wine is full-bodied and crammed with layers of luscious fruits. Opulent, yet focused, it is an extremely successful 1998, as well as a reflection of Vincent Girardin's innumerable talents as a winemaker and purchaser of some of the Cotes de Beaune's finest fruit. Projected maturity: now-2007+. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel (205) 980-8802.