1986 Château Suduiraut
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Tasting notes
The 1986 Suduiraut ought to be a stellar wine. If only that was the case. It has a simple bouquet compared to the likes of Yquem or Climens: much more malic than one would expect with grass clipping notes suggesting some under-ripeness. The palate is medium-bodied with a pleasing vivacious entry, underpinned by a taut line of acidity, notes of pear and ginger, though it seems to tail off towards the finish. Tasted at a private dinner in London.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
I would have expected Suduiraut to be outstanding in 1986, but it is not. It is very good, but this wine should have been a classic. Plump, rich, honeyed, pineapple, coconut, and buttery fruit flavors abound in this full-bodied, rich wine that falls just short of being profound. It is muscular and rich, but it is missing an element of complexity that I found in many other 1986s. Also, is it possible that the 1986 Suduiraut has less botrytis than the other top examples from this vintage? Anticipated maturity: Now-2008. Last tasted, 3/90.
I would have expected Suduiraut to be outstanding in 1986, but it is not. It is very good, but this wine should have been a classic. Plump, rich, honeyed, pineapple, coconut, and buttery fruit flavors abound in this full-bodied, rich wine that falls just short of being profound. It is muscular and rich, but it is missing an element of complexity that I found in many other 1986s. Also, is it possible that the 1986 Suduiraut has less botrytis than the other top examples from this vintage? Anticipated maturity: Now-2008. Last tasted, 3/90. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com