The 1980s vintages of Chateau Meyney were one of our house wines for many years. Now, of course, only the most long-lived vintages are still going strong. Among these, the 1986 is a sentimental favorite because that was the year Helen and I got married. So I opened a bottle tonight as we celebrate our 25th anniversary.
At age 25, the Meyney is amazing -- and still improving if my note from 2003 is any guide. It is still a deep ruby in color. The bouquet is huge, permeating the dining room with scents of prunes, cassis, leather, tobacco, and cedar. On the palate, there is still a stunning amount of rich black fruit. Plus, mocha and toffee.
How much longer does it have? Maybe 5 years. Maybe 10 if impeccably cellared in some Scottish Highland castle's wine cellar where the temperature never varies from about 45 degrees. But it is delicious to drink now. The last two bottles in my cellar should be worried, because I'm coming for them.
Grade: A
