Tasted at the Montrose vertical in London, I think I was as surprised as Hervé Berland when the 1985 Montrose performed above expectations. Picked between 25 September and 9 October, it is mature in color with some bricking on the rim. The palate is a little rustic with red berries intermingling with bacon fat, singed leather, bay leaf and a slither of dried orange peel. The palate is very well balanced, fleshy in keeping with the style of the vintage, not as complex or as structured as the 1986, but certainly superior to the 1982 Montrose, with an effortless, nonchalant finish that beckons you back for another sip. Just a delicious Saint Estèphe that is à point. Tasted June 2016.

Starting to soften now with currant, fresh herb and light oak character. Full and round, with good fruit and a silky finish. Wonderful length and finesse. A wonderful wine now, but will go on for a long time.--Non-blind Chateau Montrose vertical. Drink now through 2015. -JS

A surpisingly light, innocuous style of Montrose, the 1985 exhibits a medium ruby color, followed by pleasant but washed-out aromas of sweet red currants, earth, and herbs. This medium-bodied wine displays some charm and sweet fruit on the attack, but it narrows out in the mid-palate and finish. There is also angular tannin and herbaceousness in the after-taste. While it is an above average, good wine, in terms of Montrose, it is disappointing. Anticipated maturity: Now-2005. Last tasted 10/97