Should I drink this tonight?

[cookie monster]

A 1990 Chateau Pape Clement Pessac-leognan - I know next to nothing about Bordeaux. From what I've managed to glean from various wine websites of indeterminate trustworthiness, this is (a) a very good bottle, and (b) in its period of prime drinkability. So should I open it tonight (either to celebrate or to drown my sorrows)?

[whiner]

Did you drink it? How was it? Based upon my experience with '90, the wines are still young, but they are approachable.

[cookie monster]

We did. Decanted for about an hour (thanks, Bill, for the suggestion about pouring a glass to monitor what's going on in the decanter). Anyway, I thought it was delicious. There was an earthiness, if that's the right term, about it that was such a contrast from the young, fruity reds that I'm used to for every day drinking.

Now I need to do a survey of the other special bottles that I've got stashed in my wine fridges (a 1996 Dom came out last week to celebrate a wedding, and that was fantastic), and then come back to you all for guidance on what to drink when! i love this board - thanks for all your advice.

[Bill Hunt]

"I thought it was delicious"

That is about the most that any of us can ask for from a wine. Glad that it was an enjoyable bottle.

Thanks for reporting back, now get busy on that survey - too many wines - too little time.

Hunt

[WineTravel]

Since you're thinking about it, open it... should be drinking fine now. I just had a 1990 Figeac a couple of days ago that was excellent. Enjoy

[zin1953]

I'd prefer to savor it with a good meal, but . . . it should be really tasty!

[cookie monster]

Don't worry, it will be savored, not swigged . . . the meal I can't vouch for since I'm not in charge of the food.

PS - decant or no?

[Bill Hunt]

I almost always decant my Bdx., but with a caveat. I'll decant to remove any sediment, but pour myself a glass in the process. I'll monitor this glass and when I think that the wine is opening up, will serve the wine from the decanter. I'm less a believer is setting a time frame and more a proponent of what I am tasting. Some people will staunchly advocate X hours for wine A and Y hours for wine B. I go with my palate.

Hunt

[maria lorraine]

" I'll monitor this glass and when I think that the wine is opening up,"

What a wonderful tip. Will use this forever.

You have now redeemed yourself in my eyes after your election night wine comment.

[Bill Hunt]

ML,

That was all that I wished to do! [Grin]

Hunt

[Charles Yu]

1990 is a great vintage year for Bordeaux. The Pape Clement should be at its peak now. Enjoy!!!