"The 1986 La Mission-Haut-Brion possesses dark ruby color, a spicy, mineral and tobacco-scented bouquet, firm tannins, medium to full body, and excellent potential for extended cellaring. The compactness noticeable in early tastings has been replaced by a more expansive, generous feeling of fruit. Plenty of tannin remains, but the mineral, cassis, and tobacco scents of a top La Mission are beginning to emerge. This wine is closer to maturity than I would have thought."