Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 01/01/2003 A wine of extraordinary charm and elegance, the dark garnet-colored 1985 Ducru-Beaucaillou has a floral, cedary nose intermixed with red and black currants as well as flowers. The wine is fully mature and soft, with beautiful concentration and purity. It is not a blockbuster, and certainly not nearly as powerful and massive as the 1986, but it is certainly much more seductive. This wine should continue to drink well for at least another 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2012. Last tasted, 5/02. For sheer elegance, charm, and finesse, the 1985 Ducru-Beaucaillou has it all. The wine is close to full maturity, yet retains a vibrancy and youthfulness that is unusual for a 1985. The generous flavors are soft, but not flabby. The wine possesses outstanding concentration yet is elegant and refreshing. This is a beautifully knit, harmonious Ducru. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. (92)

Proprietor Bruno Borie mentioned that this was a late vintage. They started to pick on 30th September, finishing on 11th October. He didn't have exact grape percentages for this year, but he thinks it is probably 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. Pale to medium brick-brown colored, the 1985 Ducru-Beaucaillou slowly unfurls to reveal notes of Christmas pudding, dried cranberries and bouquet garni with nuances of cast iron pan, dusty soil and woodsmoke. Medium-bodied, the palate has a firm, chewy backbone and oodles of freshness with a core of dried herbs and stewed tea and a slightly rustic finish.

The 1985 Ducru-Beaucaillou has a light and earthy bouquet with notes of green pepper, graphite, liquorice and hints of leather and tobacco. Medium-bodied, the palate is firm and linear, and exhibits graphite aromas. The finish is short and a bit tight and acidic. Drink it now!

Darker, bluer colour than the 1989. Very sweet and spicy. Luscious overall with a sweet start and a dry finish with real St-Julien character and still going strong. Very long lived. An excellent Ducru. (JR)