1950s wine from Moldova (Cricova)?

[wondersofwine]

I have no experience with Moldavian wines. However, not many wines are meant to age 40 or 50 years. Some Bordeaux and Burgundy wines, if from a good vintage, will last that long. I would think that the wine you are considering would be a gamble. It may have turned to vinegar by now. Storage at cool temperatures and the proper humidity is important for long-term aging of wines. Also, the cork may have failed by now if it was never recorked in its lifetime. The cost may actually be high if the chance of the wine still being sound is risky.
As for tastes of older wine--some wines that are quite tannic as young wines improve in age as the tannis soften. Also, the wines may develop more complex aromas and flavors from aging. The majority of wines are meant to be drunk within a couple years of bottling. Cabernet Sauvignon wines, Barolos, Petit Syrah, etc. may need longer to integrate the elements of the wine and soften the tannins. Many Rieslings are pleasant young but develop complexity with age. Forty or fifty years is a stretch even for wines that need some maturity to peak.

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 09-12-2003).]