Tasted at Chateau Climens. A lucid golden colour. This has a more “broody” nose that demands some coaxing from the glass. Seville orange, marmalade, a touch of quince and lanolin. The palate is stunning: immense power, stunning focus and balance, superb tautness and length, really fanning out into a spectrum of flavours towards the finish with notes of Clementine, apricot and a hint of ginger. Wonderful length and poise – one of the greatest Climens of the decade. Drink now-2040+. Tasted April 2009.

A totally compelling Climens and to my mind, every bit as good as the 1988, the 1986 is probably the best Climens made since their spectacular 1971. It is still light gold in color, with an expansive bouquet of new oak, oranges, pineapples, and other tropical fruits. In the mouth, the great richness 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: 1994-2010. Last tasted, 6/93.

Light orange with a peachy nose. Relatively low acidity. Slightly soft but fun. Floral notes. Very slightly simple and with less concentration than the Yquem 1986 served blind alongside. (JR)