This wine was one of the better wines I have had from the '86 vintage along with the Ducru.

A full/medium bodied wine, showing tobacco, spice and berry on the nose and the palate. The finish was long and pleasing with a pleasant spice aftertaste.

While I think most 1986 Bordeaux are not ready, this bottle was drinking well.

I had one of these recently and would concurr. Ready to go, and a nice, classic style of Bordeaux. Score?

Drab, I rarely post a score because I tend to score lower than most. I will think highly of a wine and give it a 90, while others rip a wine and give it an 88.

I would give this wine a 92.

quote:

Drab, I rarely post a score because I tend to score lower than most. I will think highly of a wine and give it a 90, while others rip a wine and give it an 88.

But, it helps with perspective? Now I have a good idea about your overall feeling on the wine. We all have different perspectives with the 100 pt. scale, but now that I know you're more of a Tanzeresque grader the score puts the whole package together.

I've still got an '84 that we haven't popped yet. May have to do that soon! -mJ

I'd get to that 84' as soon as you can. I opened one about a year ago and it was completely shot. The 86' however is one of the wines that got me seriously interested.

Had this again tonight. Identical notes as above....sweet tobacco, mixed berries, cassis, cigar spice, cedar, mint leaf, earth, medium bodied. This filled out with 1-2 hours of air. A really nice '86 Bordeaux that is ready to drink, and very compatible with food. Not showing any of the harsh tannins this vintage is notorious for. Long harmonious finish. My only criticism is that it lacks depth and concentration of fruit to bring it to the level the best of this vintage are known for. Otherwise, it is very nice. 94 pts.

Had this Sunday night. Cork was still solid but wet most of the way down the cork. The wine initially was a very light color with bricking. Nice tobacco and berry flavors with a hint of leather. Wonderful berry flavors with a long sweet finish. Really opened up after a half hour in the decanter gaining weight and complexity. Would buy again.

Thanks for the update Thirsty.

I may pull one again over the holidays.