Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande Pauillac 1986 (750ml)

Critical Acclaim 95 points Decanter Marvellous old Bordeaux with delicate cassis, graphite, and faded violet nuances. A legendary wine for this estate, equal to the 1982 but ageing better. (ID) (10/2014) 95 points Vinous The 1986 Pichon-Lalande has long been one of the standout wines of the decade, and served blind, this suggests that it might have the 1982 in its sights. In many ways, it is the twin brother of the Cabernet-driven 1996. It bolts out of the stable doors with intense blackberry and cedar aromas -- pure Cabernet -- and reveals touches of mint with time. The palate is medium-bodied and thankfully less obdurate than a decade ago; the tannins have mellowed in recent years and secondary notes of sage and graphite are now more expressive. I once described the 1986 as "broad-shouldered." It remains just that, but it has learned some grace and manners. This is a clear high point for the estate. (NM) (8/2019) 95 points Wine Spectator Juicy, fleshy and showy, with warm plum sauce,