Forever in the shadow of the legendary vintage that precedes it, the 1986 Sassicaia never garnished the attention or accolades that this wine truly merited. This is yet another underdog vintage that showed surprising results in this retrospective (and likewise has never been formally reviewed by Robert Parker Wine Advocate). This effort from 1986 offers integrity and grace with fine and finessed aromas of dried berry, tobacco, tar, licorice and grilled rosemary. That elegance has prevailed over the many years this wine has evolved in the bottle. This vintage does not show the heavy darkness of 1987. Instead the wine offers a vertical approach with bright intensity and fresh menthol. - Monica Larner