88 pts - Wine Advocate
The 1988 Ducru is a medium-bodied wine, without the profound depth and sheer intensity of fruit of the 1989. Possessing high tannins and good ripeness, with an overall sense of compactness and toughness, it recalls the style of the best 1966 Medocs. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted 1/93.- Robert Parker Jr. (01/1998)
92 pts - Wine Spectator
Shows outstanding structure and definition. New oak comes through in the coffee and plum aromas and the palate is firm and concentrated, with delicious blackberry flavors. Hold until 2000 for it to soften and bloom.--Ducru-Beaucaillou vertical. –TM WS
92 pts - Vinous
Bright, dark red with an amber rim. Aromas of dried red cherry, faded flowers, sandalwood and spices, along with a classic Bordeaux leafy element. Then big, dense and fresh, with building sweetness to the dark fruit, cedar and graphite flavors. This wine features impressively smooth tannins and terrific freshness, not to mention sneaky concentration and building sweetness. The 1988 is a major success for Branaire-Ducru.- Ian D'Agata (3/214)