Climens 1986

The 1986 Climens is ordered in a half-bottle, the perfect size for Sauternes. This is one of my favorite vintages of the Barsac estate. It has a vivacious, energetic bouquet with Seville oranges, quince and a touch of melted wax. The palate has a kind of streamlined intensity that knocks you for seven, full of energy with a captivating apricot-tinged finish that leaves you wanting more. It’s challenging to think of a wine that offers better value than this. (Drink between 2023-2060)

A totally compelling Climens and every bit as good as the 1988. It is probably the best Climens made since their spectacular 1971. Still light gold in color, it has an expansive bouquet of new oak, oranges, pineapples, and other tropical fruits. In the mouth, there is great richness that seems all the more impressive because of the wine's remarkable clarity and definition. There is as much botrytis in the 1986 as in the 1988. Despite the intensity and extract levels, this sweet wine comes across as crisp and relatively light. The 1986 is a stunning example of Climens at its very best. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted, 1/91.

The 1988 reveals layer upon layer of honeyed pineapple-and orange-scented and -flavored fruit, vibrant acidity, high levels of botrytis, and a fabulously long, yet well-focused finish. It is a great wine. Anticipated maturity: now-2015. Last tasted 11/94