Lafleur 1986

The 1986 was dumb, muted, and disappointing when first poured, but 30 minutes later it was blossoming beautifully, and continued to gain in strength, bouquet, and stature for the next several hours. When retasted later in the evening, it appeared young, backward, and extremely promising. It may ultimately turn out like the stunning 1966.

One of the few Right Bank wines in this vintage that can stand up to the powerful Cabernet Sauvignon-based Medocs, Lafleur's 1986 is a structured, tannic, backward wine that needs another 5-8 years of cellaring. It possesses a jammy black cherry, herb, mineral, and earthy-scented nose, and dense, rustic levels of tannin in its full-bodied power, and richness. While it is not fun to drink, it sure is impressive. Will I always admire rather than enjoy this wine?