1986 de Fieuzal

Extremely tannic and hard, but the flavors are fine with herb, cherry and currant notes. The tannins then take over, leaving a very dry and chewy finish. Wine Spectator, 30 Jun 1989.

This vintage is decidedly mixed in the southern part of the Pessac-Leognan appellation, but Fieuzal has turned in a fine effort. The wine still retains a youthful, deep ruby/purple color with purple nuances. The nose is more backward than recent Fieuzal vintages, displaying earth, spice, new oak, and moderately sweet black currant and cranberry fruit. It is a medium-bodied wine with high tannin. This Fieuzal has evolved at a glacial pace and should have a long life. I expected it to be fully mature by now, but it appears to need another 4-5 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2016. Last tasted 1/97. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com

Gorgeous black olive and sage notes enhance the precise and poised aromatics of the 1986 de Fieuzal, just the lightest touch of mint emerging with time. So much character blossoms in the glass. The palate is quite youthful considering that the 1986 is almost four decades in age. It’s very smooth, and its plushness is more like a 1985 than a 1986. There is real density on the mulberry- and black pepper-tinged finish. This is a wonderful, mature Pessac-Léognan.