Wealthy collectors will have a great deal of fun comparing the 1986, 1988, and 1989 as they evolve over the years. The 1986 was the finest Guiraud made up to that point. I believe it to be a worthy rival of the great 1988, although I suspect the 1988 will last longer and have higher acidity and better overall balance. However, the 1986 is a super concentrated, aromatic wine with gobs of botrytis, and creamy, unctuous, peach, pineapple, and apricot flavors. There is plenty of new oak to frame the wine, although the overall acidity is less than in the 1988. The finish is exceptionally long and well balanced. This is a massive, concentrated wine that should easily develop over several decades. - 92 pts Robert Parker (Bordeaux Book, 3rd Edition - January 1988)

Tasted as part of a vertical held at the chateau. The Guiraud 1986 appears to have declined since its peak around a decade ago, when it was showing extremely well. Here, it has a more floral bouquet that coeval vintages, with scents of incense and a distinct fresh mint aroma. The definition is very good. The palate is rounded on the entry with mango and dried apricot notes. It seems to get going and then it takes its foot off the accelerator toward the finish and finishes too simple in context of the vintage. I just think that this Sauternes has run out of steam and its glory days are behind it. - 87 pts Neal Martin (eRobertParker.com, June 2013)