1985 Château Giscours
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Tasting notes
The 1985 Giscours is maybe a little better than the '82 on the nose, fresh and generous, with touches of Provençal herbs, fennel and undergrowth tincturing the red fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-boned tannins, a keen line of acidity, not fleshy per se, yet livelier than the '82, with a brisk and sapid finish. Worth seeking out.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Tobacco leaf and undergrowth, followed by sweet strawberry and cold ash suggests that this charming wine is very much in its tertiary phase. Tannins barely there at this point, and this should be enjoyed soon, although the strucure is saved by an oyster shell freshness on the finish. Jean Paul Gardere - co-director at Château Latour - was consultant at the time, through to 1988.
During much of the eighties, most of the structure of Giscours was sacrificed in favor of a lighter, fruitier, ready-to-drink wine. This is especially evident with the 1985 and 1986 vintages. The 1985 is light, fruity, agreeable, and charming, but lacks grip and length. It will be short-lived. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 1/90.
Elegant and concentrated with hints of floral, berries and cheese. It's wel l balanced with firm acidity and tannins, ultimately simple but flavorful and attractive. -James Suckling, Wine Spectator
About the producer
Ch. Giscours is a Third Growth estate situated in the Médoc appellation of Margaux. With a long and somewhat chequered history, the estate has seen an impressive rise in quality since the early 2000s and is only getting better.