I would not be surprised to see this wine fill out with several additional years in the bottle, largely because Lafite is a notoriously bad performer in the first few years after bottling. Out of cask, the 1987 was the most complex wine I tasted from this vintage, but now, the nose seems only a fraction of what it was from cask. The lead-pencil, vanillin-scented, leafy, cedary bouquet is just beginning to emerge. In the mouth, the wine is light, displaying a soft, supple texture, some acidity, but little tannin. It will probably improve, and may ultimately merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: Now-1999. Last tasted, 10/90.

Although light, the 1987 is an immensely charming wine. The lead-pencil, vanillin-scented, leafy, cedary bouquet has emerged in this fully mature wine. Light-bodied, displaying a soft, supple texture, crisp acidity, and an absence of tannin, the 1987 Lafite should be drunk over the next 3-7 years. Last tasted, 2/93.

Buttery, spicy wood tones accent the modest cherry flavors. A good Lafite to drink now through 1996.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.