The 1983 Beychevelle may constitute one of the hidden gems of this era. A recent bottle was not quite firing on all cylinders. The best encounter remains a double magnum direct from the château that boasted outgoing black fruit and cigar box mixed with cedar scents. The palate is well-balanced, a fairly "gutsy" Saint-Julien. What it lacks in finesse, it compensates with concentration and backbone. Tasted at home from my own cellar. -- Neal Martin

Classic and classy, medium-bodied, elegant, crisp, red berry-filled, fully mature, wine. Already displaying its bright, red currants, crunchy tannins, and accents of cedar, tobacco leaf, peppery herbs, and cigar wrapper accents with ease. No decanting is needed. Drink from 2023-2028.