I have tasted the 1985 du Tertre nine times, five times from cask and four times from the bottle. While I have never seen a wine behave so differently, the two most recent tastings have revealed positive results. The last two examples (both tasted in France) exhibited a nice deep ruby/purple color with no signs of age and a forward, earthy (truffles?), curranty bouquet that was enticing. In the mouth, the wine possessed plenty of fat, ripe, supple blackberry and curranty flavors, with just enough soft tannins and acidity to give the wine grip and focus. This is a luscious, very forward style of du Tertre. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 11/90.

Rich, complex and elegant, concentrated and intense with layers of cedar, c assis, plum and cherries, offering uncommon depth, finesse and refinement. A great wine at a terrific price.