1986 Château Haut-Bages-Libéral

Magnum. Delightfully rich and a great undertow. Slightly dry finish but excellent depth of fruit on the palate. This, from what was rarely a charming vintage, has lasted admirably. (JR)

The percentage of new oak casks used at Haut-Bages-Liberal was increased and the selection process tightened, and the result in 1986 is their finest wine since the 1975, and certainly one of the best wines ever made at the property. Dark ruby/purple, with an expansive bouquet of plums, sweet toasty oak, and black currants, this dense, full-bodied, chewy wine has a suppleness that will allow it to be drunk in the early nineties. But it also has the balance, richness, and tannin content to age well for at least another 20 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2015. Last tasted, 3/90.

The percentage of new oak casks used at Haut-Bages-Liberal was increased and the selection process tightened, and the result in 1986 is their finest wine since the 1975, and certainly one of the best wines ever made at the property. Dark ruby/purple, with an expansive bouquet of plums, sweet toasty oak, and black currants, this dense, full-bodied, chewy wine has a suppleness that will allow it to be drunk in the early nineties. But it also has the balance, richness, and tannin content to age well for at least another 20 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2015. Last tasted, 3/90. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com