1985 - Domaine de Chevalier Rouge, Pessac-Leognan

(65% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot and 5% cabernet franc; 12.2% alcohol): Medium-deep red with a hint of amber at the rim. Woodsy notes of underbrush, rosemary, marjoram and old leather complement discreet red berries on the nose. Enters sweet yet juicy, offering good fleshiness to its sweet, ripe red berry and red cherry flavors complicated by orange rind and sweet spices. Finishes persistent but a little simple, with notes of coffee bean and tobacco. This is drinking well now and won't gain by further aging. A little disappointing in the context of the vintage.