Expert: Paul Wagner - 2/7/2011

Question
I located two bottles of wine in my parents basement. I know nothing about wine, but I have so many memories of my father enjoying his wine. They both are from 1986. One is Buena Vista Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve. The other is Pasquier Desvignes Marquisat Beaujolais Villages. Are they still good to drink, are they a dinner wine, value etc. Any information is appreciated. Thanks so much

Answer
HI Joe

How was the temperature in that closet?  If it was pretty cool, under 65 degrees or so, the the Buena Vista might still be OK---a little tired, but OK.  It wouldn't have much value on the auction market, maybe $35-45, but it might still offer some pleasure.  The Beaujolais is way past its prime--should have been opened more than 20 years ago.  That's a wine that needs to be enjoyed when itis young and fruity.  

Note that it is illegal in the US for private individuals to sell wine...so you'd have to work through a retailer or auction house.  In my mind, it would be better to just up the Cabernet and hope for the best.  

Sorry that I don't have more exciting news for you

Paul Wagner