Merlot 101

What is the shelve life of Merlot and Beaujolais?

I recenly was given a box of old wine. The Merlots are from 1998. The Beaujolais is from 1984. Could these still be ok to drink. Obviously other red wines get better with age, I'm not sure about the latter ones. Any help could be appreciated.

Public Comments

1. The merlot could be okay, depending on how it was stored. The gamay (Beaujolais) is more questionable, it's not really a wine for aging, and if it was just "in a box" I would be concerned about how it had been stored (temp, humidity, etc). A more specific appellation Beaujolais (like Julienas for example) might be more likely to be safe, but The only way you will know for sure is to pop the cork, and it WAS given to you, so you have nothing to lose Chase with water if needed!
2. Probably OK to drink. If not stored properly may not taste too good. open one and taste it! you will be able to tell right away if you like it. It might taste great! If it tastes good , have a party!!!! you can invite me if you want ;)
3. Both would be worth a try. I would be very interested in how the Beaujolais aged. It really depends on the quality of the wine. Either way, give 'em a taste and take from there. A bit of advice, if the Beauj is good, I would drink it quickly after opening, it won't have the body to last very long after being opened. Cheers!