Really long-lasting wines are red or fortified. Sure, some white wines age, but they're less stable, and, like a used car, only the previous owner knows their care. The most stable aged wine is port, a sweet, fortified dessert wine. Designed to withstand abuse, port's higher alcohol level insulates it from spoilage. When "declaring" vintages, the picky Portuguese examine the grape quality and weather, and, when conditions merit, pronounce a vintage year. "Classic" vintages are few and far between, so if your special someone's birthday falls in the following years, grab one and make his/her day: 1945, 1948, 1963, 1970, and 1977. Other "Outstanding" vintages are: 1934, 1947, 1955, and 1966.
But, much to my dismay, not everyone likes port. California Cabernet Sauvignons, in all their glory, aren't as hearty as the French Bordeaux, but vintages as old as 1978 should be holding on. Older than that, you're counting on a miracle that it was stored well. French Bordeaux, made with sturdy Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, is another story. French wines age better, and older vintages aren't as rare. The best years to give Bordeaux: 1945, 1947, 1959, 1961, 1962, 1970, and 1982.
For red Burgundys, you're dealing with the wimpier, more delicate Pinot Noir grape. Its aging potential isn't as high as Bordeaux reds. That said, there ain't nothing much better than an earthy aged Pinot. Look for 1969 and 1978. One area often overlooked by casual wine lovers is the Southern Rhone Valley, where the legendary Chateauneuf du Pape originates. Made from the robustly tannic Syrah grape, these wines age to a smooth, nuttiness, tinged with soft fruit. And, as far as gifts go, the labels are pretty cool too. Great vintages for the Southern Rhone: 1945, 1959, 1961, 1971, and 1978.
To uncover these aged beauties requires some savvy research and time. Start at your local fine wine shop, since sometimes they have a secret stock. They also may know if the local wine distributor has any in their warehouse. But realizing the low odds of these two options panning out, head to the Internet. Sites like Winebid.com, Morrellwineauctions.com, Winecommune.com, and Wine-Searcher.com can be ripe areas for rare wines.
Once you get your hands on an oldie, keep in mind some tidbits to tell to your giftee: 1) Don't hold onto the bottle. Enjoy it now; 2) Older wines normally have a black sediment resting in the bottle's bottom. It's perfectly harmless, yet not tasty. Avoid it by resting the bottle upright about an hour before opening, then decant it by pouring the wine into a pitcher or carafe, making sure the flakes don't make it past the bottle neck; and 3) Let the wine make contact with oxygen. Decanting helps, but also pour some into a glass to breathe before drinking.
Recommended Wines
Chateau St. Jean 2001 Sonoma Pinot Noir Has an initial musty nose that grows into black cherry mixed with smoke. $15
Burklin Wolf 2001 Estate Riesling Peaches, peaches, peaches. Try this one nice and cold on a hot day, and brace yourself for the intense flavor. $16