Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape, 1986

This 1986 Beaucastel was unusually hard and tannic during the 1990s but has now developed significant elegance and finesse in the Beaucastel style. 30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, 10% Cinsault plus 15% of other Chateauneuf blending grapes.

Medium brick color. The cork was stained black with sediment all the way to the top but was still sound and came out with no problem using the Durand cork screw. Even before decanting, the wine was showing very well. Lifted aromas of red fruit, violets, leather. Medium bodied with excellent acid/tannin balance and a long, glorious finish. Red berries galore; incredible fruit presence for a 35-year-old wine. Lives up to the Beaucastel standards. I would suggest decanting rather than extended aeration.