Scoring 17+ Dionysian points, with 12.5% alcohol and costing under $50 then, The 1986 Chateau Margaux, First Growth Grand Cru Bordeaux showed very well. It held together for an hour and a half after decanting.Tobacco and herbs, with hints of currant, orange peal and fresh oak easily filled the nose.

It begged for lamb chops. It knew best.

The taste filled the front, mid, and back of the mouth. Silky tannins showed that it had another decade at least.

Wines from Margaux have the most fragrance of all the Bordeaux villages. Always keep the food simple when pairing with a great wine. It was the last 1986. I’ll open my last 1970 this coming winter. In Vino Veritas.