Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou Vintage 1985

This well respected Saint Julien estate was classed as a second growth in the 1855 classification and consistently produces great wines. It is often described as the quintessential Saint-Julien – deeply colored and powerfully ripe, yet balanced and harmonious. The grand vin usually needs 10 years of aging and can last for decades The 1985 vintage was excellent for the region.

Typical blend, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot. 75cl bottle. Abv 12%

Bottle condition, capsule excellent, label excellent, wine level in neck. Recently removed from professional storage.

Poured into a decanter about 30min prior to service and enjoyed over the course of several hours. This bottle of the 1985 was more recently acquired from the chateau and in pristine condition. The wine pours a deep garnet color with a near opaque core; medium viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is vinous with notes of ripe and desiccated dark and red fruits: black currants, mixed brambles, tobacco, pencil shavings, some dried purple flowers, some green bell pepper, mushrooms, leather, some ferrous earth and gentle warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin (integrated) and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long and slightly savory. Elegant and beautiful this was such a fun and rewarding wine to follow as the hours rolled by. A very strong showing at 40 years young and not slowing down soon. Drink now through 2040.