1982 Grand Puy Lacoste

Given the high prices of the 1982 first growths, it may make sense to pursue some of the other 1982 Bordeaux. Last night, I opened the Grand Puy Lacoste, which has risen from $130 to $160 over the last several years. A more rigorous analysis might show that when valued in constant dollars, the price has changed very little, if at all. This wine had a fabulous nose during the decanting process. After decanting, the wine went back in the (rinsed out) bottle. The '82 Grand Puy Lacoste is at peak maturity now, and does not benefit from extended exposure to air. It does benefit, however, from a slight warming. Cellar temperature (55F) is too cold for this wine. Although many big, high alcohol reds benefit from a bit of cooling, the Grand Puy is not in their league. I warmed the wine by placing my hands around the glass, and felt that it showed better when over 70F (temperatures measured with an infrared laser thermometer from Sears). If you are looking for a full-bodied cabernet from a classic year, then the Grand Puy Lacoste is probably not your wine. It is a classic Pauillac, medium bodied, easy to drink, and yes, graphite on the nose. The secondary flavors of leather and tobacco are present, but not overbearing. This wine is little changed from when I last tasted it 3 years ago.