1986 Climens from Chateau Climens, Sauternes, Bordeaux

The 1986 vintage from the iconic Chateau Climens stands as a testament to the exquisite craft of winemaking that this eminent Sauternes producer is renowned for. My many years tracing the nuances and evolution of Bordeaux vintages affords me a particular appreciation for the exceptional quality 1986 was able to deliver, especially in the sweet wine enclave of Sauternes.

Delicate Alchemy under Bordeaux's Skies

Nature's capricious whims dealt a hand in 1986 characterized by a warm summer followed by an idyllic period of autumnal mists and warmth - perfect conditions for promoting noble rot, the Botrytis cinerea, vital for concentrating the flavours and sugars in the grapes. It was these climatic serendipities which allowed the 1986 Climens from Chateau Climens to emerge with such sweetness balanced by invigorating acidity.

Investment-worthy Elixir from an Outstanding Year

The particular harmony achieved in 1986 makes this vintage one to court for astute wine investors seeking enrichment not solely of their portfolios, but also of their discerning palates. With decades of gradual maturation, the 1986 Chateau Climens beckons with its deep amber allure, offering an aromatic bouquet where harmonious whispers of candied apricot, honeyed figs, and toasted almond converge. Savouring this elixir reveals an opulent tapestry of flavour layered with complex botrytized fruit and a lingering finish tinged with delightful hints of saffron and ginger.

As I ponder over the wealth of experience brought forth through each sip of this golden nectar, I am reminded that fine wines such as the 1986 Climens from Chateau Climens not only represent a wise investment choice but embody liquid history—each bottle a chronicle of its year's unique narrative. In the domain of fine sweet wines, here lies a bottle that connoisseurs and investors alike would do well to secure as part of their collection.