1986 Lanessan

Still impressively saturated in hue, the 1986 Lanessan is drinking very well, offering up aromas of sweet currant fruit, forest floor, cigar ash and licorice, followed by a medium-bodied, fleshy palate built around bright acids and melted tannins. Surprisingly charming and extrovert for a vintage that can still be austere, it is in its prime today. It starts out strong but only improves with 30 minutes in a decanter.