Only a first growth could do this well in such a lousy vintage. (I guess that’s why they are the first growths.) The color was promising, with a solid ruby center and some pink hues near the edge, perhaps even just a hint of brick. The aromas were wonderful, if nearly totally secondary. Iron, blood, leather, damp earth and cedar mingled with the little bit of cassis and cherry that were hanging in for the finish. Still, despite the lack of obvious fruit I found this to be a wine I wanted to go back to. It displayed the character of a well-aged wine without really tasting old. The flavors were integrated and also in the earthy mold, but again not in a way that made the wine seem tired. It just seemed like it had aged to its proper time and was giving the results that were appropriate for the vintage. Over the course of a couple of hours it held up very well. It was also a very good match with the slightly gamy venison, with the blood and iron matching well to the meat and the sautéed mushrooms. This bottle amply demonstrated that there is a place for lesser vintage wines from fine producers. An excellent showing for Haut-Brion that I will not soon forget.

Try the 1987 Chateau Latour sometime. Very good for the vintage. I have not tried the 87 Haut Brion but I've heard other people say good things about it. Nice note

Cheers
Paul5