1986 Le Pin
By Chateau Le Pin
1986 Le Pin from Chateau Le Pin, Pomerol, Bordeaux
A beacon of Bordeaux splendour, the 1986 Le Pin from Chateau Le Pin captivates with its testament to an extraordinary harvest. Delving into this distinctive Pomerol offering, investors and connoisseurs alike are presented with a unique opportunity: the ideal marriage of the year's auspicious climate and the vintner's artistry which culminated in a tremendously balanced vintage.
Elegance Weaved in Complexity: A Symphony of 1986
It was the confluence of favourable weather conditions throughout the growing season that provided a canvas for this masterpiece. The estate's meticulous attention to detail and deft handling of the Merlot grapes have birthed a vintage that, even with several decades in repose, exhibits an undiminished vibrancy and layered complexity reminiscent of the most regal tapestries.
On encountering the 1986 Le Pin from Chateau Le Pin, one is first greeted by its deep garnet hue, suggesting a maturity reached through gentle evolution rather than abrupt shifts. The bouquet offers an oeuvre of ripe berries laced with an earthy undertone and truffled sophistication. The palatal experience is significantly textured; dark fruits intertwine effortlessly with an undercurrent of well-integrated oak and seductive hints of spice.
The Investment Virtues of a Distinct Vintage
With fine wine investment in mind, this particular vintage stands as a bastion for those seeking both exclusivity and longevity. As one assesses its investment potential, it becomes clearly apparent that the 1986 vintage encapsulates a moment in enological history wherein nature and human skill were exquisitely synchronised at Chateau Le Pin.
In summation, the 1986 Le Pin resonates profoundly with those who are enamoured by wines that are shaped as much by their temporal origin as by their pedigree. This vintage demonstrates just how magnificently time has caressed and enhanced what was once young fruit into something bordering on ethereal—a true reflection of a seasoned investor's aspirations when seeking out gems like this for their portfolio.
Market price (GBP)
£20,640.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
1474.29
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted from a half-bottle with owner Jacques Thienpont and Fiona Morrison MW at the property, the 1986 Le Pin put in a quite dazzling display. Who says demi-bouteilles cannot age! Still youthful in color, I was smitten by the precocious and intoxicating bouquet armed with seductive blueberry, vanilla and violet scents. Interestingly, it reminded me of a fine Chambertin and that Burgundy theme continues onto the palate. Like the nose, the palate remains very exuberant and lively, belying its age and disproving the theory that Le Pin cannot mature as well as other Pomerols. This is underpinned by filigree, quite firm tannin that are counterpoised by a sensual Burgundy-like texture, the finish offering wonderful precision and intensity. There is just a sense of effortlessness here. Probably at 30 years, it is at its peak. The 1986 Le Pin is a sterling success. For those fortunate enough to have bottles, well, you are in for a real treat. Tasted June 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 June 2016
One of the more structured examples of Le Pin, and still surprisingly youthful for a wine that critics say needs to be drunk in its first 5-10 years, this dark garnet-colored wine has notes of licorice, loamy soil scents, sweet black cherries and currants along with some truffle and vanilla. The wine is medium-bodied with a certain firmness and delineation, and less of the charm, glycerin, and opulence that the ripe, more generous vintages provide. The finish is long and almost Medoc-like. Anticipated maturity: Now-2015. Last taste, 12/01.
Robert Parker Jr - Bordeaux Book, 4th Edition Jan 2003
Tasted at Bipin Desai's Le Pin vertical in Los Angeles. A moderate garnet core with light brick rim. The nose is a little muffled at first with a slight vegetal edge, developing some subtle notes of cigar box, leather, wild mushroom and smoke, although it always seems to be a little morose. The palate is medium-bodied and dominated by firm, masculine tannins that is slightly out of kilter with the level of fruit that fades away towards the finish. But I cannot help admiring its aloofness, which is perhaps why my score might appear generous vis-a-vis verbiage. 600 cases produced. Drink now-2015. Tasted November 2008.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2009