1985 vintage: good in all regions

by Julie Berteloot 16 August 2024

16 August 2024 9.8K views

Overshadowed by the reputation of other years, the 1985 vintage is nonetheless one of the great vintages of the 1980s. Marked by severe winter frost and intense summer heat, it produced wines with excellent aging potential.

The wines of 1985 in Bordeaux

It is a magnificent vintage, embodying the fullness and superiority of this vineyard. Better balanced and structured than 1983, 1985 is above all notable for its remarkable consistency. September was particularly beautiful — the hottest and driest month ever recorded in Bordeaux. The red wines are complex and aromatic, suitable both for immediate enjoyment and long aging. For whites, this vintage showcases true mastery of winemaking techniques, including clarification and temperature control. Perfect ripeness produced clean, well-balanced white wines. The sweet wines, however, did not shine: the weather was too dry to allow the development of noble rot.

The Burgundy region in 1985

In 1985, Burgundy stood out as a French region rich in exceptional cultural and gastronomic heritage. Known for its prestigious wines — including appellations such as Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, and Chablis — the region was already attracting enthusiasts and professionals from around the world. During this period, Burgundy reinforced its identity around its vineyard landscapes, its traditional villages, and its iconic historical sites such as Beaune, Dijon, and Vézelay.

Driven by agricultural dynamism and a strong appreciation for local expertise, Burgundy in 1985 embodied a balance between tradition and regional development. This period marked a turning point in which authenticity, terroir, and quality became key assets contributing to the region’s growing prestige.

Champagnes of the year 1985

In 1985, Champagne regained its momentum thanks to lower yields that allowed for remarkable quality. Despite a small harvest, the champagnes of this vintage stand out for their maturity and concentration. The profile is floral, vinous, and beautifully elegant. Perfectly balanced, these wines display fresh acidity, refined structure, and harmonious alcohol levels. Fruity, polished, and generous, the 1985 champagnes are now considered some of the decade’s most iconic successes.

The 1985 wines of the Rhône Valley

The 1985 vintage in the Rhône Valley stands out for its remarkable generosity and impressive aromatic intensity. This year produced wines of outstanding quality—rich, supple, and beautifully concentrated. Thanks to their solid and well-balanced structure, the 1985 wines also offer excellent aging potential, making this vintage one of the most sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.