This was initially very dusty on opening.  I thought there might be some TCA, but it was just bottle stink as it blew off.  After that, it kept getting better for the next couple of hours.  Ruby in color with some browning, a bit flat.  The nose had dust, cassis, dried currents and a bit of funk.  On the palate, this has slight tannins still.  Cherries and dried cherries.  Some complexity.  Probably a bit past peak but still drinking quite well.  It works better with food and was excellent with stuffed mushrooms.  This probably needs to be consumed sooner than later although it should still drink well for five to seven more years.  This was better than a bottle consumed last April, but so it goes with old bottles.  

Grade: 
A
Score: 
93
Vintage: 
1986