The 1990 Grand Cru Chateau Prieure-Lichine took 25 years to fully develop. Slight browning on the edge is the only aging sight factor. Aromas of tobacco and some new-car leather, which many Bordeaux develop after ten years, added to the dark cherry and vanilla notes in this perfectly aged Margaux.

The grilled beef, that the wine was married to, was laced with soy and additional Margaux from a lesser year and producer. This home-cooked dinner was divine. The wine gets an 18+ on a possible Dionysian 20-point scoring card.

This Cinquièmes Crus, a Fourth Growth, from the 1855 Bordeaux Classification for the Medoc, has three centuries of history behind it. It’s always been famous for its charming bouquet. Wine writer Alexis Lichine bought the estate in 1952 for nearly 150 million “old francs.” The name was changed in 1953, permitting Lichine to add his name to this classic Chateau.

The wine has about 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot.

The 2009 and 2010 Prieure-Lichine will easily age for three or four decades and the 2012 vintage I recently tasted, will peak at 10 years old and hold well for an additional decade. This is an excellent Bordeaux to build a new wine cellar around.

Any of the 11 Fourth Growths are smart buys ,and this wine made the simple grilled beef and potatoes dinner a special unique Wednesday meal at home. In vino veritas.