Chaotic weather beginning with flowering gave way to a hot, very dry summer. Mild temperatures and showers brought on a strong attack of botrytis and the first pass took place under a blanket of heavy fog. Noble rot spread far and wide with the arrival of 40 mm of rain in late October. The return of sunshine in November necessitated 30 days of intense work in the mist. This vintage illustrates the fabulous potential of years with a long Indian summer in Sauternes.

With greater evidence of botrytis than the colossal 1983, but less power and alcohol, the 1986 d'Yquem tastes reminiscent of the 1975, only more precocious. Several highly respected Bordeaux negociants who are d'Yquem enthusiasts had claimed the 1986 d'Yquem was the greatest wine produced at the property since the legendary 1937. However, after the release of the 1988 they concluded that the 1988 surpassed even the 1986. The 1986's enthralling bouquet of pineapples, sauteed hazelnuts, vanillin, and ripe apricots is breathtaking. Compellingly concentrated, its breadth as well as depth of flavor seemingly know no limits. This full-bodied, powerful, yet impeccably elegant d'Yquem should provide memorable drinking for 40-55 more years. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2040. Last tasted, 7/93.

◆パーカーポイント：98点
◆飲み頃：2000〜2040年