Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou is named after the beautiful large stones that characterize its unique Saint-Julien terroir. Unusual for Bordeaux, it is one of the only castles to be built directly above the barrel cellars and one of the few estates producing a ‘Grand Cru Classe’ still inhabited by its owners. The Borie family has owned this estate and has lived here for over sixty years, in the sumptuous aromas of their wine.

Rated a second growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Ducru sits on an exceptional site with incomparable views over the Gironde estuary. Its 75-hectare vineyard is planted 70% to Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% to Merlot with an average vine age of 35 years.

Today, the estate is managed by the company Jean Eugene Borie SA, which is owned by Mrs. Borie, her daughter Sabine Coiffe and her son Bruno-Eugene.

Ducru-Beaucaillou is a fine, elegant, and delicious wine with a long finish - in short, an archetypal Saint-Julien. The grapes are hand-picked, and the sorting process takes place on mobile tables in the vineyard to keep the healthy grapes separate from substandard ones. Fermentation is by traditional techniques and only the best fruit is used to produce the wine.

The 1986 Ducru Beaucaillou is a remarkable Bordeaux Blend from the renowned St Julien region in Bordeaux, France. This vintage showcases the exceptional quality and aging potential of wines from this esteemed appellation. With a deep, almost black color, this wine immediately captures the eye and hints at its intensity and complexity.

The nose of this Ducru Beaucaillou is a sensory journey of aromas, with intense notes of cassis, herbs, and mint. These captivating scents are accompanied by a touch of licorice, adding another layer of intrigue. On the palate, the wine reveals its superrich and dense character, with cassis and licorice flavors that coat the mouth with luxurious intensity. The depth and concentration of flavors are truly remarkable, showcasing the potential for long-term aging.

The Wine Spectator awarded this wine an impressive score of 95 points, describing it as a "monster in its infancy." This accolade perfectly captures the powerful nature and potential longevity of this vintage. The reviewer also notes the wine's almost black color and its dense flavors, suggesting that it may last forever.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also gives high praise to this Ducru Beaucaillou, scoring it 94 points. The tasting note describes the wine as medium brick in color with a touch of brown, indicating its age. The reviewer mentions the presence of dried mulberries, kirsch, and raisin cake flavors, along with nuances of celery salt, dried bay leaves, truffles, and charcuterie. These complex flavors are supported by firm, chewy tannins and a bold freshness. The finish is long and features a delightful dried mint kick.

It is important to note that this vintage fell within a patchy period at Ducru, which may have affected some bottles. However, this particular bottle, tasted at the chateau, was described as pristine and free from any taint.

Overall, the 1986 Ducru Beaucaillou is a wine of exceptional quality and character. With its intense flavors, powerful structure, and the potential for long-term aging, it is a true gem from the Bordeaux region.