(5.4 g/l total acidity; 13.1% alcohol): Deep ruby-red with a hint of amber at the rim. Aromas of blackcurrant, coffee, green bell pepper and leathery dried herbs. Rich, round and peppery in the mouth, with similar flavors to the aromas and a long, clean finish. Not the last word in complexity but solidly made, with a soft, ripe texture typical of the vintage and of Lynch-Bages. Better in the mouth than on the nose today, but lacks the complexity for an outstanding score.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Really beaming out of the glass: earthy, smoky, bacon rind, flint, mineral, really fascinating and complex nose with more layers than a mille-feuille. Still sweetly ripe fruit but also a dry and savoury complexity on the palate; but perhaps not quite all the promise of the nose comes through. Nonetheless, the same roasted coffee, chocolate, pencil shaving, licorice, leather and gentle menthol flavours are there. Elegant and drinkable.  (RH)

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Fully mature with some amber at the edge, the medium-bodied, elegant 1985 offers notes of bay leaves, roasted herbs, black currants and sweet cherries. This vintage has always had an early appeal and seductiveness. It is unlikely to get any better, so owners should consume it over the next 5-7 years.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Our wine of the year in 1988 and still well worth it. The first bottle was slightly cheesy but the second one was superb, showing outstanding ripe berry, cherry and currant flavors and layers of silky fine tannins. Sexy and exciting. Drink now or hold.--Cabernet Challenge.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Good