1986 Sterling Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

Community Tasting Notes (11) Median Score: 91 points

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  1/28/2021 - Michigan Mostberg Likes this wine: 93 Points

  Note that the 1986 Sterling Reserve is Red Table Wine, not Cabernet Sauvignon. Over a month since opening a 9L bottle and decanting into spigoted 3L bags on 12/27/20 with several tastings in between. Presents now as a 1986 cab might have shown on Day 2 at 10 yrs of age. I know that's a lot of situational time references on which to predicate a tasting note, but the point is (immensely) oversized bottles of vintage wine can be enjoyed without wasting it on a gathering of people who really don't know, care or appreciate what they're drinking.

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  12/27/2020 - Michigan Mostberg Likes this wine: 94 Points

  From 9L (see pic) noting that the 1986 Sterling Reserve is Red Table Wine, not Cabernet Sauvignon. Perfectly stored salmanazar, overlooked in the cellar for several years. Medium-bodied, presents as a 10 yr-old wine, though black melded fruit now replacing anything red. Generous anise with slightest hint of olive on the nose, blackberry and dark cherry with sweet oak on the enduring finish. Zero tertiary or tired notes to be found. Perfect balance prevails in this classic blend of all 5 Bdx red grape varieties, 12.8% alcohol eliminates fatigue should Robyn and I try to drink this all tonight. Would not have budged from here had I ignored it for another decade. Approx. 1.5L consumed on Day 1, the balance decanted into 2 over-filled, spigoted 3L wine bags to be enjoyed over the next few wks. Love it when a plan comes together.

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  1/3/2020 - JRB1 Likes this wine: 93 Points

  Aged but not falling apart. Rich, with some residual sugar and full body, and mostly black cherry flavor, with acidity in balance. This was a well stored bottle....2 more yet to consume.

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  7/28/2013 - BoulderWine wrote: 83 Points

  Still had nice color along with mature aromas but it was pretty much dried out at this point in its life. But we still enjoyed it with a grilled steak. At 12.8% alc., it is a real throwback.

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  1/19/2011 - Javachip wrote: 80 Points

  Clear deep blood-garnet hue. Notes of meat juice and eucalyptus. Initially bitter and devoid of fruit. After two hours, it improved somewhat, and a bit of red fruit appeared.

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