1986 Troplong Mondot
By Chateau Troplong Mondot
1986 Troplong Mondot from Chateau Troplong Mondot, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
The 1986 vintage from Chateau Troplong Mondot is a splendid exemplar of Saint-Emilion's prowess and depth. In a region where refinement meets richness, the '86 stands as a beacon of what Bordeaux can achieve in a year when the confluence of climate and craft reach a harmonious zenith. Those with a penchant for mature Bordeaux will find this vintage an astute addition to their collection.
A Vintage Shaped by Time and Terroir
The 1986 season blessed Saint-Emilion with climatic generosity—adequate warmth and well-timed rains during growth led to optimal grape maturation. The result in the glass is a balance of sturdy tannins now mellowed, a structured yet elegant body, and a flavour profile exuding tertiary aromas of truffle, cigar box, and dried black cherry, all indicative of the revered Right Bank pedigree.
An Artful Assemblage with Investment Merit
With four decades in bottle, the 1986 Troplong Mondot exhibits an intricacy that appeals to connoisseurs and investors alike. Layers unfold with every sip: earthy undertones give way to hints of leather and lingering notes of plum, evoking the storied gravel and clay soils on which these vines thrive. Its ageing potential has been realised splendidly, inviting admirers to explore its delicate complexities.
Moreover, its impressive performance on the secondary market reflects its standing amongst aficionados seeking venerable Bordeaux vintages with favourable investment trajectories. The 1986 Troplong Mondot holds a particular charm—a bygone era captured, embodying the enduring soul of Saint-Emilion's craft.
Concluding Notes on a Distinguished Vintage
In sum, the 1986 Troplong Mondot stands as a testament to artful winemaking amidst fortuitous climatic conditions—an investment-worthy jewel for those who appreciate the grace of aged Bordeaux. For those looking to diversify their portfolio or simply indulge in vinous history, this vintage exemplifies the heights that Chateau Troplong Mondot can achieve in an exceptional year.
Market price (USD)
$1,380.00
12x75cl
Highest score
87
POP score
161.43
Scores and tasting notes
Starting to become a bit more attenuated in the finish, but still very pleasingly perfumed, with notes of dusty earth, herbs, black cherries, tobacco, and licorice, this medium-bodied wine is behaving more like a Medoc than a typical St.-Emilion. Anticipated maturity: Now-2005. Last tasted, 11/02.
Robert Parker Jr - Bordeaux Book, 4th Edition Jan 2003
Tasted from magnum, since presumably no bottles remain at the winery, the 1986 Troplong-Mondot has a rather fatigued, leathery bouquet with touches of mushroom coming through. It feels enervated. The palate is better with modest black fruit, balanced if just lacking much in the way of complexity. I suspect this was drinking better between 10-15 years, so my advice is to pop open any bottles you might have in the not too distant future or load up on superior vintages from the last decade. Tasted July 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 30 December 2016