de Fieuzal 1986

This vintage is decidedly mixed in the southern part of the Pessac-Leognan appellation, but Fieuzal has turned in a fine effort. The wine still retains a youthful, deep ruby/purple color with purple nuances. The nose is more backward than recent Fieuzal vintages, displaying earth, spice, new oak, and moderately sweet black currant and cranberry fruit. It is a medium-bodied wine with high tannin. This Fieuzal has evolved at a glacial pace and should have a long life. I expected it to be fully mature by now, but it appears to need another 4-5 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2016. Last tasted 1/97.