1986 Château Margaux
Community Tasting Note
La Cave d'Argent Likes this wine:
Saturday, October 21, 2017 - 2017 New York Wine Experience Trip; 10/16/2017-10/25/2017 (New York City, NY): I have tasted Margaux's '86 iteration on numerous occasions over the past two decades and have come to the conclusion that it is a very misunderstood wine. I say this because I firmly believe that most opened bottles are not being given enough time in decanter for the wine to fully strut its stuff. As such, it is frequently described as closed, unyielding or "classic." While the latter term may apply with respect to its overall style and structure, I think that it should not be confused with something indomitable. This taste was from an ex-château magnum. A blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc, it is currently opaque garnet in color. During the structured Margaux vertical, the wine offered very little in terms of aroma and flavor. Knowing its history of requiring extended aeration, the glass was taken to our hotel room, where it was allowed to breathe and be serially tasted over the ensuing nine hours. At the six-hour point, it began to show progressively intense aromas of dark plums, blackberries, baking spices, leather and cigar box. The full-bodied, fresh palate showed similar flavors, with substantial residual tannins that are now taking on a more silky texture. The wine's mid-palate density is impressive and the finish is very long. This is tour de force for Château Margaux and, over time, a benchmark by which other vintages will be judged. Drink now-2045.
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Comment posted by jlgnml:
10/31/2017 5:37:00 PM - This was the first futures wine we bought, $610 a case. Never opened enough and we decanted many btls. Sold a case and hung on to the last 6 btls. Good to note that a 4+hr decant w Ll help and looking forward in trying another btl I 2-5 years. Thank you for the expressive note. BTW the '89 was a killer wine.
Comment posted by La Cave d'Argent:
10/31/2017 6:24:00 PM - Don't feel hurried to open it, as it will last many more years. But when you do celebrate with one of these special bottles, several hours of aeration will maximize your enjoyment. Cheers!