Has anyone tried this lately? Parker rates it much higher than WS. Trying to decide on a purchase from a reliable source and have always been a fan of Lalande.

London02,

I too love Pichon Lalande. And, while I have not had the 96 (though I do have some in my cellar), I would go with your heart. If you love it, trust your love. I remember the reverse scenario with the 1990. WS gave it a high score, while Parker totally panned it (78 or something like that). Well, last year I decided to try one and it was delicious.

IMHO, the moral of the story is that you should trust your own palate, and especially when the wine in question comes from a producer that you love. Chances are, if you are inclined toward a producer in terms of jiving on their flavor profile, then unless it is a uniquely horrible vintange (something 96--or 90--were not) then you will like their wines.

Peace.