Tasted at the Chateau Palmer vertical in London, the 1986 Chateau Palmer might not embrace you like the 1985, and yet it remains a Margaux with pedigree. It offers blackcurrant pastilles, raspberry and cedar on the nose, violets unfurling with time in the glass, guiding the drinker to its appellation of origin. The palate is medium-bodied and well balanced, as expected, more austere and reserved than the 1985, but with fine backbone and an attractive masculine, tobacco-infused finish that is precise and long. It is not in the same class as the 1989, but it has clearly reached its drinking plateau and should continue there for at least another decade. Tasted May 2015.

Smooth and succulent, with attractive earth, tobacco and cassis aromas and flavors. Despite its intensity and concentration, it never loses its sense of balance and harmony. Drinkable now but better if you can cellar it longer. -

The great 1986 Medocs have turned the corner and, while they are still young wines, they are approaching their adolescence. This wine still has a dense ruby/purple color with a bit of lightening at the edge. The nose offers up hints of minerals, sweet black cherry and black currant fruit, medium to full body, moderately high tannin, and outstanding purity in a very stern yet impressively concentrated style. The wine still tastes young, but it is budging from its very closed, dormant period, where it had rested for nearly 15 years. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2022. Last tasted, 5/02.