With an excellent 12.8% alcohol, costing under $22 back then, this 36 year-old Burgundy scored 17 points on the Dionysian scale of a possible 20.

The 1985 Joseph Drouhin Cote de Beaune-Villages was still rich with cherry aroma and color. An amber edge was showing now, but the nose was complex with subtle red fruits and herbs. It opened for half an hour after decanting.

Served with grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup. Really made the meal.

Older Burgundy, like old Bordeaux, provides an extension of aromas and tastes. This one had great acidity and a nice finish. It refreshed the mouth for each new bite or spoonful. Drouhin does it well. In Vino Veritas.