| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Left Bank > St Julien |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
A wine of extraordinary charm and elegance, the dark garnet-colored 1985 Ducru-Beaucaillou has a floral, cedary nose intermixed with red and black currants as well as flowers. The wine is fully mature and soft, with beautiful concentration and purity. It is not a blockbuster, and certainly not nearly as powerful and massive as the 1986, but it is certainly much more seductive. This wine should continue to drink well for at least another 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2012. Last tasted, 5/02.
Medium ruby with a brick red rim, the nose is earthy and complex with notes of graphite, cedar and mint, bolstered by a vibrant note of ripe blackcurrant. The palate is smooth with silky tannins that have now melted into the wine. The flavours follow from the nose, with blackcurrant leaf, cedar, graphite and savoury toasted spices on this perfectly mature wine. The finish is lifted by a balancing acidity and is long, smooth and elegant. Very impressive and delicious at nearly 30 years old, a testament to the ageing potential of great Bordeaux.
For sheer elegance, charm, and finesse, the 1985 Ducru Beaucaillou has it all. The wine is close to full maturity yet retains a vibrancy and youthfulness that is unusual for a 1985. The generous flavours are soft but not flabby. The wine possesses outstanding concentration yet is elegant and refreshing. This is a beautifully knit, harmonious Ducru. Drink now to 2010.
