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Search Flickinger Wine Inventory
Inventory updated: Thu, Nov 20, 2025 02:46 PM cst
Your search criteria:
Regions: Bordeaux Red
Vintages: Between 2005 and 2005
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Ausone |
2005 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML) 
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$7,587.99 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 100 (4/2021): The 2005 Ausone is magnificent. A wine of soaring intensity and class, the 2005 dazzles from the very first taste. The aromatics alone are captivating, with notes of cinnamon, mint, crushed rocks, blood orange, mocha and incense. Graceful and stately in bearing, the 2005 boasts tremendous purity and breathtaking balance. Readers will find a stunning Saint-Émilion that is just at the beginning of what promises to be a very long drinking window that will be measured in decades. It is a towering achievement from the Vauthier family. (Drink between 2022-2055). Antonio Galloni.
WA 100 (6/2015): The 2005 Ausone is a perfect wine of the vintage. It displays crushed rock, spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry fruit, a full-bodied mouthfeel, stunning purity and richness, and perfect harmony among all of its component parts (acidity, tannin, wood, alcohol and extract). Still youthful, but oh, so promising, this wine should be set aside for another decade and drunk over the following 50-75 years. |
|
| Ch. Bellevue |
2005 |
St. Emilion (24x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,190.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2015): The first bottle of 2005 Bellevue that I tasted had a maderized, oxidized nose that was off-putting. This note is from a second bottle. This second bottle showed absolutely no trace of oxidation, but did offer plenty of crushed, chalky minerality, notes of plum, blueberry, black raspberry and cherry fruit, a dense purple color, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and fabulous structure, purity and length. It should drink well for at least another 20+ years. |
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|
2005 |
St. Emilion (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$896.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2015): The first bottle of 2005 Bellevue that I tasted had a maderized, oxidized nose that was off-putting. This note is from a second bottle. This second bottle showed absolutely no trace of oxidation, but did offer plenty of crushed, chalky minerality, notes of plum, blueberry, black raspberry and cherry fruit, a dense purple color, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and fabulous structure, purity and length. It should drink well for at least another 20+ years. |
|
| Ch. Branaire-Ducru |
2005 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,337.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (4/2008): As usual, the 2005 Branaire-Ducru is one of the more distinctive wines of St.-Julien. Proprietor Patrick Maroteaux has turned out another classic. While not as opulent or fleshy as the 2003, and it remains to be seen if it will eclipse the 2000, the 2005 is a big, structured, intensely rich effort with raspberry, blueberry, and spring flower garden characteristics, stunning purity, full-bodied power, and good underlying acidity as well as harmony. The hard tannins suggest 8-9 years of cellaring will be beneficial; it should last for three decades. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+.
VM 94 (4/2021): The 2005 Branaire-Ducru is a gorgeous, super-expressive wine that captures all of the natural radiance of the year. Black cherry, leather, spice, cedar, tobacco and scorched earth envelop the palate, framed by silky tannins that give this supple Saint-Julien so much charm. The 2005 is a very easy wine to drink and enjoy today, but it's got the stuffing to develop beautifully for years to come. Antonio Galloni.
WS 92 (3/2008): Very floral, showing blueberry, licorice and mineral on the nose. Full and very silky, with beautifully polished tannins. Long and caressing. This is always very well done and good value for the quality. Best after 2010. |
|
| Ch. Cantemerle |
2005 |
Haut Medoc (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$442.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (4/2008): Cantemerle’s new proprietors believe in producing delicate, beautifully wrought, finesse-styled wines that require some introspection. The deep ruby-hued 2005 displays aromas of licorice, roasted herbs, sweet cherries, and flowers. In the mouth, the wine seems almost light in comparison to its peers, but it possesses an ethereal seriousness, purity, and overall harmony that are striking for its delicacy and finesse. A blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest primarily Merlot with a tiny dollop of Cabernet Franc, it should be at its finest between 2012-2025+.
WS 90 (3/2008): Shows blackberry and plum skin aromas, with hints of vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft, velvety tannins and a pretty, fruity aftertaste. An elegant, balanced style. Lingers on the palate. Best after 2012. 33,330 cases made.
VM 88+ (6/2008): Good medium ruby . Reticent aromas of black cherry and licorice. Bright, tight and high-pitched, with very fresh flavors of dark fruits and flowers currently dominated by firm tannic spine. A bit youthfully tough and in need of at least several years of cellaring. |
|
|
2005 |
Haut Medoc (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$757.98 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 90 (4/2008): Cantemerle’s new proprietors believe in producing delicate, beautifully wrought, finesse-styled wines that require some introspection. The deep ruby-hued 2005 displays aromas of licorice, roasted herbs, sweet cherries, and flowers. In the mouth, the wine seems almost light in comparison to its peers, but it possesses an ethereal seriousness, purity, and overall harmony that are striking for its delicacy and finesse. A blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest primarily Merlot with a tiny dollop of Cabernet Franc, it should be at its finest between 2012-2025+.
WS 90 (3/2008): Shows blackberry and plum skin aromas, with hints of vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft, velvety tannins and a pretty, fruity aftertaste. An elegant, balanced style. Lingers on the palate. Best after 2012. 33,330 cases made.
VM 88+ (6/2008): Good medium ruby . Reticent aromas of black cherry and licorice. Bright, tight and high-pitched, with very fresh flavors of dark fruits and flowers currently dominated by firm tannic spine. A bit youthfully tough and in need of at least several years of cellaring. |
|
| Carruades de Lafite |
2005 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,534.97 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (6/2008): Good deep red. Pungent aromas of currant, cherry skin, leather, graphite, olive and flowers. Suave, minerally and penetrating, with lovely energy and floral lift. Not at all a fleshy style but classic, vibrant and firmly built, finishing with excellent lift.
WA 89 (4/2008): A classic example of a second wine, the 2005 Carruades de Lafite reveals a dark ruby hue with some pink showing at the rim. The moderately intense nose of graphite, forest floor, and sweet black currant fruit is followed by a medium-bodied, elegant wine with light to moderate tannin. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.
WS 89 (3/2008): Has coffee and chocolate aromas, with hints of ripe fruit. Medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a fruity, plummy, milk chocolaty aftertaste. The second wine of Lafite Rothschild. Best after 2012. |
|
| Ch. Cheval-Blanc |
2005 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,371.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (6/2015): The 2005 from Cheval Blanc is a quintessentially elegant, beautiful, deep bluish/ruby-colored wine from St.-Emilion, with raspberry, blueberry, and floral notes, impressive density, great precision, freshness and purity. Full-bodied, but extremely light on its feet, I don’t mean to gush, but it is super-intense, rich and just so meticulously crafted! This is another fabulous wine and a perfect expression for this vintage. It is difficult to forget the gorgeous blueberry and raspberry fruit, full body, sweet tannin, a multi-layered texture, and purity and palate presence of this stunning wine. Drink it over the next 20 years. P.S. In 2005, this was 50% Cabernet Franc and 50% Merlot.
VM 100 (11/2015): The 2005 Cheval Blanc is another wine that is utterly mesmerizing from the moment it is opened. Exquisite in its aromatics, the 2005 Cheval is sublime on the palate, where the interplay of Merlot and Cabernet Franc proves to be captivating. In a night of truly spellbinding wines, the Cheval makes a deep impression because of its overall finesse and nuance. Along with the Margaux and Haut-Brion, the Cheval speaks to total refinement and polish. The Cheval is of course not one of the bigger, more imposing wines of the night, but it is among the most complete, which makes it the perfect wine to close out an incredible night. When we first opened the 2005, I thought it might very well be the wine of the night. A few hours later, it was every bit as impressive. Antonio Galloni.
NM 98+ (2/2015): The Château Cheval Blanc 2005 has an intense bouquet, one that is more complex than Ausone with a slight marine influence infusing the blackberry and raspberry fruit, hints of wilted violet and cassis surfacing with time an joining the chorus line.. The palate is beautifully balanced with filigree tannin. It feels linear at first and then fans out marvellously with a bravura finish that lacquers the mouth. There is clearly quite brilliant precision here, impressive length and poise with a touch of salinity on the finish. What a spellbinding Cheval Blanc, a Saint Emilion that is just going to get better and better with each passing year.
JS 98 (11/2015): Always a fabulous nose of black fruit, dark chocolate, nuts and spices. It's full-bodied with beautifully dense tannins reminiscent of cashmere. A long, long finish rounds out this beautiful wine. It would be better to leave it alone until 2020 but so hard not to revel in its splendor now.
WS 97 (3/2008): This is really gorgeous on the nose, with blackberry, mineral, light vanilla bean and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is racy and very beautiful. The tannins coat the palate, but leave a provoking impression. A Cheval for long-term aging. Best after 2017. |
|
| Ch. La Clemence |
2005 |
Pomerol |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 91 (6/2015): From proprietor Christian Dauriac, this wine, which has a tendency to be very oaky, has evolved nicely, with the oak well-measured and restrained. The color is a dense purple and the wine full-bodied, rich, heady and youthful. There is still plenty of meat, tannin and body, so this wine would probably be best cellared for another few years. Forget it for now and drink it between 2020 and 2035.
WS 91 (6/2008): Mineral, leather and berry aromas lead to a full body, with round tannins and a long finish. Chewy. A big wine. Best after 2012.
VM 89-92 (5/2006): Moderately saturated ruby-red. High-toned aromas of black cherry, violet, licorice and menthol, plus a whiff of smoked meat. Pliant, nicely delineated flavors of black cherry and spices offer an insidious sweetness. Finishes firmly tannic and persistent, with lovely violety lift. The best young vintage I've tasted to date from this chateau.
NM 89 (1/2012): Tasted at BBR’s 2005/2009 tasting in London. The nose is very pure with cassis, small dark cherries, a touch of liquorice and blueberry with good definition. The palate is medium-bodied with toasty tannins, plump and rounded with noticeable new oak and a ravishing sweet finish that is just missing a little tension and reserve. Modern and supple in style, it will appeal to those who prefer a more New World style of Pomerol. |
|
| Ch. Clinet |
2005 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,223.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (6/2015): The opaque ruby/purple 2005 Clinet offers incredibly fragrant aromatics, an opaque ruby/purple color, and a wonderfully sweet nose of flowers, blackberries, licorice, truffle and caramel. Full-bodied, powerful and rich, it is not as nuanced or complex as the top four or five Pomerols, but close. This is a broad, meaty, masculine, super-rich and concentrated wine, with lavish plum, blackcurrants and blackberries. Drink it five years from now, and over the following 30 or more years.
WS 93 (3/2008): Exhibits subtle, complex aromas of black olive, mushroom and crushed berry. Full-bodied, with a velvety tannin structure and a decadent, ripe fruit aftertaste. Slightly earthy, but with loads of delicious fruit. Best after 2013. 2,915 cases made.
NM 91 (12/2012): Tasted at the Pomerol tasting at the Antique Wine Company. The Clinet ’05 has a ripe nose, but one that is surprisingly sultry at first before revealing cassis, red plum and mulberry scents – the oak more assimilated than on previous bottles. The palate is full-bodied with a dense, quite tannic structured. Perhaps this is in an awkward stage at the moment. It feels a little lactic at the front of the mouth and the touch of mocha on the finish seems a little out of place. I do not hold this in the same regard as recent vintages such as the 2009 or 2010, but it is an impressive of not outwardly pleasurable Pomerol. |
|
| Ch. la Clotte |
2005 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,644.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (4/2008): One of the sexiest, most hedonistic wines of the vintage, La Clotte’s 2005 (fewer than 1,400 cases produced from this 10-acre vineyard) is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. An exquisite perfume of underbrush, charcoal, kirsch, spice box, chocolate, and espresso soars from the glass of this full-bodied claret. With low acidity for the vintage, sweet tannin, and a fleshy, multilayered mouthfeel, this decadent St.-Emilion should last longer than its precocious showing in March suggests. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. |
|
| La Commanderie |
2005 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$517.97 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Duhart Milon |
2005 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$815.97 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94 (4/2008): The finest Duhart-Milon ever made? This structured, tannic, dense ruby/purple-tinged Pauillac offers up hints of cassis, licorice, chocolate, and earth. Medium to full-bodied with good purity, strong tannins, and undeniable elegance, it reveals a character not dissimilar from its renowned sibling, Lafite-Rothschild. A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot, it is unquestionably Outstanding, but to my taste, slightly less opulent than the estate’s ethereal 2003. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.
WS 93 (3/2008): Dark in color, almost black, with beautiful aromas of spices, blackberry and milk chocolate. Full-bodied and very silky, yet tannic, with a wonderful texture. This is long and caressing. Gorgeous. Best after 2015. 20,000 cases made.
VM 91+ (6/2008): Medium ruby. Superripe aromas and flavors of blueberry, blackberry, bitter chocolate, licorice, menthol and Asian spices. Big, chocolatey and rich; much broader and more backward than the Carruades I tasted next to it but without that wine's perfume and light touch. Finishes chewy and youthfully medicinal, with a classic dryness and substantial tannins that call for seven or eight years of cellaring.
NM 90+ (1/2009): Tasted single blind at Southwold. This has a tightly wound nose, cedar and blackberry, a touch of black plum and crushed rocks. As always - introspective and broody. The palate has a ripe plumy entry, very sweet fruit, a bit of heat here, brusque tannins and rather coarse towards the finish. Moderate length. It is a sulky Duhart at the moment, but give it time. Drink 2015-2035. |
|
| Ch. L' Eglise Clinet |
2005 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,281.98 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (4/2008): A sensational effort from proprietor Denis Durantou, this 2005 is a compelling wine, but purchasers should wait at least a decade to begin the magical liquid tour. One of the monumental wines of the vintage, it boasts a dense purple color as well as a glorious perfume of caramelized blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, a hint of toast in the backward, fully integrated oak, full body, and exceptional density and richness. Prodigiously concentrated, this layered, broad Pomerol reveals a seamless integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol, and wood. It is a massive, yet remarkably elegant wine that is as singular as it is exhilarating. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2040.
VM 95+ (6/2008): Saturated ruby-red. Superripe, deep aromas of black cherry, mocha, bitter chocolate, licorice pastille and menthol; almost porty in its ripeness. Hugely concentrated and sweet, with perfectly integrated acidity giving shape and verve to the dark berry, violet and licorice flavors. A very powerful, ageworthy wine with terrific grip and flavor definition. The serious but fine tannins arrive very late and coat the front teeth. It will be fascinating to taste this alongside the great 1998 in a decade or so. |
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|
2005 |
Pomerol (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,129.98 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (4/2008): A sensational effort from proprietor Denis Durantou, this 2005 is a compelling wine, but purchasers should wait at least a decade to begin the magical liquid tour. One of the monumental wines of the vintage, it boasts a dense purple color as well as a glorious perfume of caramelized blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, a hint of toast in the backward, fully integrated oak, full body, and exceptional density and richness. Prodigiously concentrated, this layered, broad Pomerol reveals a seamless integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol, and wood. It is a massive, yet remarkably elegant wine that is as singular as it is exhilarating. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2040.
VM 95+ (6/2008): Saturated ruby-red. Superripe, deep aromas of black cherry, mocha, bitter chocolate, licorice pastille and menthol; almost porty in its ripeness. Hugely concentrated and sweet, with perfectly integrated acidity giving shape and verve to the dark berry, violet and licorice flavors. A very powerful, ageworthy wine with terrific grip and flavor definition. The serious but fine tannins arrive very late and coat the front teeth. It will be fascinating to taste this alongside the great 1998 in a decade or so. |
|
| Ch. Ferriere |
2005 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$929.98 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (3/2008): This offers blackberry, currant and hints of meat on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a meat, berry and light vanilla character. Has a velvety texture, with pretty fruit. Best after 2011. 4,165 cases made. |
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| Ch. Fombrauge |
2005 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$642.98 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92+ (6/2015): Another wine from Bernard Magrez, his 2005 Fombrauge (77% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon from the largest vineyard in St.-Emilion) is special. More tannic and backward than usual, and much more masculine and bigger-boned, this is a full-bodied, textured and rich wine that should hit its prime in another 4-5 years, and last 15-20. It is a stunning effort from Fombrauge that has still not attained full maturity. |
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| Ch. Fonbadet |
2005 |
Pauillac |
$49 |
14 |
|
| |
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| Les Forts de Latour |
2005 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,657.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 94 (3/2008): Shows blackberry, coffee, cedar, and raisin on the nose, turning to licorice and fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with refined, silky tannins and a long finish. Balanced and juicy. Builds on the palate, with currant, licorice and mineral character, followed by a powerful finish. An amazing second wine. Best after 2015. 13,330 cases made.
WA 92 (4/2008): The 2005 Forts de Latour (10,000 cases produced) possesses much of the same character as Latour, but sweeter tannins, more obvious and forward fruit, medium to full body, and a more seductive, plusher style, but not the great stature, richness, and architectural precision of its bigger brother. Nevertheless, it is a gorgeous Pauillac that should drink well for two decades or more.
VM 92 (6/2008): Good red-ruby. Exotic aromas of roasted plum, currant and graphite. Big, round and sweet but with the broad shoulders of the year. The silky flavors of currant, tobacco and sweet oak show extraordinary baby fat and volume. Wonderfully rich, expressive wine with a very long, silky, aromatic back end. "Better than the 2007 Latour today, and almost as long," says Engerer. (The 2006 Forts de Latour had just been fined.) |
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| Clos Fourtet |
2005 |
St. Emilion (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,140.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (6/2015): Dense ruby/purple, with notes of crushed rock, blueberry and blackberry fruit intermixed with some licorice and chocolate, this full-bodied, massive wine from proprietor Philippe Cuvelier coincides with the resurrection of this premier grand cru classe in St.-Emilion. As the wine sits in the glass, notes of espresso roast and chocolate emerge. This full-bodied classic should continue to drink well for another 25 years. This is a killer effort.
WS 95 (3/2008): Black in color. Blackberry, licorice and brewed coffee aromas follow through to a full body, with a wonderful concentration of fruit, a great texture and polished, silky tannins. Goes on for minutes. Best after 2017. 4,580 cases made.
NM 93 (2/2015): The Clos Fourtet 2005 has a lifted, relatively high-toned bouquet with scents of blackcurrant jam, boysenberry and cassis, a light floral scents developing in the glass that still needs to resolve a little. The palate is medium-bodied with calms everything down with a sensual texture, perfectly judged acidity and a very elegant dark cherry and cassis finish. Give this another four or five years in bottle if you can resist.
VM 92 (6/2008): Good deep red-ruby. Reduced nose offers redcurrant, plum, coffee and smoke. Sweet, lush and creamy on entry, then chewy and tactile if a bit closed in the middle, with suggestions of darker fruits and mocha. Impressively broad on the back, showing a serious wave of finishing fruit, but the tannins are a bit sullen today. Give this very lush, long wine at least seven or eight years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer. |
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|
2005 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,709.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (6/2015): Dense ruby/purple, with notes of crushed rock, blueberry and blackberry fruit intermixed with some licorice and chocolate, this full-bodied, massive wine from proprietor Philippe Cuvelier coincides with the resurrection of this premier grand cru classe in St.-Emilion. As the wine sits in the glass, notes of espresso roast and chocolate emerge. This full-bodied classic should continue to drink well for another 25 years. This is a killer effort.
WS 95 (3/2008): Black in color. Blackberry, licorice and brewed coffee aromas follow through to a full body, with a wonderful concentration of fruit, a great texture and polished, silky tannins. Goes on for minutes. Best after 2017. 4,580 cases made.
NM 93 (2/2015): The Clos Fourtet 2005 has a lifted, relatively high-toned bouquet with scents of blackcurrant jam, boysenberry and cassis, a light floral scents developing in the glass that still needs to resolve a little. The palate is medium-bodied with calms everything down with a sensual texture, perfectly judged acidity and a very elegant dark cherry and cassis finish. Give this another four or five years in bottle if you can resist.
VM 92 (6/2008): Good deep red-ruby. Reduced nose offers redcurrant, plum, coffee and smoke. Sweet, lush and creamy on entry, then chewy and tactile if a bit closed in the middle, with suggestions of darker fruits and mocha. Impressively broad on the back, showing a serious wave of finishing fruit, but the tannins are a bit sullen today. Give this very lush, long wine at least seven or eight years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Ch. La Gaffeliere |
2005 |
St. Emilion (5.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,124.98 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (4/2008): The finest La Gaffeliere I have ever tasted, the prodigious 2005 boasts a dense ruby/purple color in addition to a flamboyant bouquet of lead pencil shavings, creme de cassis, blackberries, smoked meats, incense, and Asian spice. Fabulously deep and full-bodied as well as ethereal and exceptionally elegant for its explosive richness and intensity, its lightness of being reflects the vineyard’s sensational terroir. This succulent beauty appears to be approachable, but that belies some significant tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2030+.
WS 93 (3/2008): Has a fabulous, opulent nose of crushed blackberry, wild licorice and flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins, lots of fruit and a long finish. A flavorful young red. Best after 2013. 4,500 cases made.
VM 91 (5/2008): Medium ruby-red. Pure aromas of dark berries, graphite, licorice and spices. Spicy, very dark flavors of cassis, blackberry, minerals and spices, complicated by a musky espresso note and a whiff of smoked meat. Given lovely definition by a firm tannic spine that calls for patience.
NM 88 (12/2012): The La Gaffeliere ‘05 has an extrovert, rather alcoholic bouquet with black cherries, kirsch, incense and sloes, a touch of alcohol just smudging the overall effect. The palate is medium-bodied with dense, chocolate tinged black fruit and a rather brutish dry finish. It is not a terrible St. Emilion by a long shot, but I must say that its inadequacies are shown up amongst illustrious company. |
|
| Ch. Le Gay |
2005 |
Pomerol (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$784.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (4/2008): The finest Le Gay produced since the post World War II era, the 2005 even eclipses the fabulous 1982 and 1989. This inky/purple-hued effort reflects the commitment of proprietress Catherine Pere-Verge. An extraordinary perfume of blueberries, blackberries, flowers, truffles, and a touch of steely minerality is followed by a massive wine of exceptional concentration, a multilayered texture, phenomenal purity, and a finish that lasts for nearly a minute. It is a massive, old style, pure, rich Pomerol that should only be purchased by patient connoisseurs as gratification will need to be deferred for at least a decade. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+.
WS 93 (3/2008): Dark purple in color, with aromas of coffee, green olive, blackberry and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with very polished yet present tannins and a long, rich, fruity finish. The best Le Gay in years. Best after 2014. 1,575 cases made.
VM 92 (6/2008): Dark red-ruby. Plum, mocha, minerals and coffee on the nose. Supple, lush and sweet, with captivating flavors of raspberry, toffee, coffee, mocha and iron. Wonderfully pliant and appealing Pomerol, finishing with sweet, tongue-dusting tannins and excellent length. (A second bottle of roughly equal quality showed a more serious tannic spine and appeared to be in the process of shutting down.) |
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|
2005 |
Pomerol (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,388.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (4/2008): The finest Le Gay produced since the post World War II era, the 2005 even eclipses the fabulous 1982 and 1989. This inky/purple-hued effort reflects the commitment of proprietress Catherine Pere-Verge. An extraordinary perfume of blueberries, blackberries, flowers, truffles, and a touch of steely minerality is followed by a massive wine of exceptional concentration, a multilayered texture, phenomenal purity, and a finish that lasts for nearly a minute. It is a massive, old style, pure, rich Pomerol that should only be purchased by patient connoisseurs as gratification will need to be deferred for at least a decade. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+.
WS 93 (3/2008): Dark purple in color, with aromas of coffee, green olive, blackberry and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with very polished yet present tannins and a long, rich, fruity finish. The best Le Gay in years. Best after 2014. 1,575 cases made.
VM 92 (6/2008): Dark red-ruby. Plum, mocha, minerals and coffee on the nose. Supple, lush and sweet, with captivating flavors of raspberry, toffee, coffee, mocha and iron. Wonderfully pliant and appealing Pomerol, finishing with sweet, tongue-dusting tannins and excellent length. (A second bottle of roughly equal quality showed a more serious tannic spine and appeared to be in the process of shutting down.) |
|
| Ch. La Gomerie |
2005 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,231.98 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 95 (4/2008): As usual, La Gomerie’s 2005 is a sexy, dense plum/purple-tinged effort. From a 7-acre, 32-year old site planted with 100% Merlot, it exhibits a sumptuous bouquet of white chocolate, roasted coffee, blackberries, black cherries, graphite, and toasty oak. This is a modern-styled, decadently rich St.-Emilion, but because of the vintage’s higher acidity and more tannic structure, this offering possesses a more classic framework than usual. A sensational wine, it should be drinkable in 3-4 years, and age beautifully for 15-20.
WS 95 (3/2008): Dark purple black in color, showing intense aromas of blackberry, licorice and Indian spices. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and a long, long finish. This offers loads of coffee, milk chocolate, toasty oak and ripe fruit, with wonderful concentration and polish. Best after 2015. 915 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Gruaud Larose |
2005 |
St. Julien (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$870.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 91 (3/2008): Aromas of blackberry, meat and earth follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a rich finish. Decadent, balanced and very approachable already. I thought it would have been a little better than this. Best after 2014.
VM 90 (6/2008): Good red-ruby. Redcurrant, leather and game on the expressive if slightly rustic nose. Sweet and concentrated but a bit youthfully aggressive, and not showing the refinement or definition of the 2006. Strong nutty oak component. Finishes with substantial tannins that are a bit richer and more fully buffered by the wine's middle-palate material than those of the 2006. It will be interesting to compare these two vintages in ten years or so. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (6/2015): The 2005 Gruaud Larose has a deep ruby/purple color, excellent concentration, and clean, pure black and red currant fruit, licorice and spice. It is medium to full-bodied, lush, and very soft and round. I’m surprised how drinkable it is already, although it is certainly capable of lasting 15 or more years. |
|
|
2005 |
St. Julien (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,284.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 91 (3/2008): Aromas of blackberry, meat and earth follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a rich finish. Decadent, balanced and very approachable already. I thought it would have been a little better than this. Best after 2014.
VM 90 (6/2008): Good red-ruby. Redcurrant, leather and game on the expressive if slightly rustic nose. Sweet and concentrated but a bit youthfully aggressive, and not showing the refinement or definition of the 2006. Strong nutty oak component. Finishes with substantial tannins that are a bit richer and more fully buffered by the wine's middle-palate material than those of the 2006. It will be interesting to compare these two vintages in ten years or so. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (6/2015): The 2005 Gruaud Larose has a deep ruby/purple color, excellent concentration, and clean, pure black and red currant fruit, licorice and spice. It is medium to full-bodied, lush, and very soft and round. I’m surprised how drinkable it is already, although it is certainly capable of lasting 15 or more years. |
|
| Ch. Haut Bages Liberal |
2005 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$709.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 93 (3/2008): Very aromatic, showing blackberry and currant aromas, with some licorice. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a rich, decadent, fruity finish. Caresses the palate. Stylish and opulent. Best after 2011. 10,000 cases made.
WA 90 (4/2008): This deep ruby/purple-colored 2005 is a classic Pauillac. A big, sweet kiss of road tar aromas interwoven with cedarwood, smoke, spice box, herbs, and black currants emerges from the glass of this unexpectedly precocious, up-front Pauillac. Fleshy, with medium to full body as well as good acidity and structure, it lacks complexity, but offers a generous mouthful of wine at a realistic price. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022.
VM 89 (6/2008): Good ruby-red. Cool aromas of blueberry, licorice and shoe polish. Sweet and lush, but with very good energy to the rather high-pitched flavors of dark berries, spices and licorice. Dry and classic wine, finishing with substantial, slightly tough tannins that call for patience. |
|
| Ch. Haut Bailly |
2005 |
Pessac Leognan (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,023.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (7/2017): The 2005 Haut Bailly is rapidly turning into a glorious wine. You instantly fall in love with the purity on the nose, luscious red cherries, wild strawberry and blueberry. This is still youthful and beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with quite a structured opening like many in this vintage. It exerts a gentle grip in the mouth, quite tensile and linear and perhaps just tightening up a tad toward the finish. It is biding its time, but it will repay those who cellar this outstanding 2005 for another four or five years.
NM 95 (2/2015): The Château Haut-Bailly 2005 has a really quite fabulous bouquet with exuberant red and black fruit: sage, red currants, juniper and warm roof tiles on a summer's day. The palate is medium-bodied with layers and layers of grippy black fruit laced with black truffle and wild mushroom. It is incredibly well balanced with perfect acidity, the structure and backbone on the finish suggesting this will be a very "long-runner". Outstanding.
JS 95 (4/2012): This shows a great purity of fruit; firm and direct notes of raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries that open to intense notes of fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins. This wine is tight and long -- you know this is good immediately. Pull the cork after 2016.
WS 95 (3/2008): Dark purple in color. Offers pure fruit, with crushed raspberry, blackberry and dried flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins that touch every inch of the palate. Long and racy, with elegance and beauty harking back to bygone days. Best after 2015. 6,665 cases made.
VM 92+ (6/2008): Good bright medium ruby. Deep aromas of plum, currant, tobacco, mocha and menthol. Superripe and rich but with superb ripe acidity and firm tannins currently keeping the fruit and mineral elements under wraps. Just this side of severe today: here's a 2005 that appears already to have shut down in the bottle. Best today on the back end, where the wine really spreads out horizontally to saturate the palate. I'd give it a good 12 years of aging; it should be very long-lived. Classy, sharply chiseled Haut-Bailly with noteworthy elegance. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Ch. Haut Batailley |
2005 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,144.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 93 (3/2008): Offers a beautiful nose of crushed blackberry and cherry, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with a lovely balance of silky, caressing tannins and ripe fruit. Very long and minerally, with mint and eucalyptus character. A wonderful wine from this estate. Best after 2014. 7,915 cases made.
WA 92 (7/2016): Tasted at a vertical tasting at the château. The 2005 Haut Batailley obviously has a more intense bouquet than the 2004 with blackberry, wild hedgerow and cold gravel scents. It is still quite tight, but there is very fine precision here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, ripe earthy black fruit. It is actually more approachable than I was expecting for a 2005 having loosened its tie in recent years. There is great depth here and fine mineralite, completing what is a classy and sophisticated Pauillac that should repay further bottle age. Chapeau!
VM 89 (5/2008): Medium red-ruby. Ripe, smoky aromas of plum and caramel; this smells opulent! Fat and sweet in the mouth, with a slightly roasted character to the supple plum and leather flavors. In a heavier style than the 2006 but with a reasonably fine-grained texture. Finishes with dusty tannins. I find this less refined than the 2006, but there's more material and ripeness here. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Ch. Haut Bergey |
2005 |
Pessac Leognan |
$39.95 |
22 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (4/2008): One of the finest under-the-radar estates in Pessac-Leognan, Haut-Bergey’s 2005 (a blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot) offers up aromas of scorched earth, wet stones, burning embers, charcoal, and copious black currant and cherry fruit. The sumptuous bouquet is accompanied by a full-bodied wine displaying dazzling purity, sweet tannin, and a long, opulent finish. This beauty will be drinkable at a relatively early age for a 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025 |
|
| Ch. d' Issan |
2005 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,725.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (6/2015): The more serious grand vin twin, the 2005 d’Issan, has a stunning nose of spring flowers, blackcurrant and blue/black fruits galore, and an impressively opaque dark plum/purple color. With a rich, concentrated and pure mouthfeel, wonderfully sweet tannin, full-bodied density and richness, but elegance in abundance, this is a stunner, and one of the great Margaux of the vintage. Drink it now and over the next 20 years.
WS 92 (3/2008): Displays blackberry and black licorice aromas, with some tar. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Tight and structured. Needs time. Best after 2013. 8,580 cases made.
VM 89 (6/2008): Good ruby-red. Currant and game on the slightly jammy nose. Sweet, rich and suave, with good intensity to the game, jammy fruit and nutty oak flavors. In a soft style, finishing with substantial ripe tannins. |
|
| Ch. Kirwan |
2005 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,144.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 93 (3/2008): Has loads of coffee, blackberry and cigar box aromas, turning to crushed blackberry. Full-bodied, with big, chewy tannins and an aftertaste of vanilla, blackberry and espresso. Mouthpuckering. Very concentrated and structured for this wine. Best after 2015. 7,500 cases made.
WA 92+ (4/2008): I remember tasting a number of Kirwans from the 19th century that had held up surprisingly well for over 100 years. While the 2005 will probably not last that long, it may be one of the finest wines this estate has made in the last fifty years. This brilliant, full-bodied, powerful, broodingly backward Margaux exhibits a dense purple hue along with notes of charcoal, licorice, blackberries, and graphite. Exceptionally concentrated, possessing high tannin, zesty acidity, and a 45-second finish, it should be purchased only by patient connoisseurs. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2035.
VM 91 (6/2008): Bright, deep red. Expressive, full-blown aromas of currant, coffee and mocha. Sweet, round and ripe, with sexy flavors of ripe berries and licorice. Quite full for Margaux, and finishing with sweet tannins and lovely lingering fruit. |
|
| Ch. Lafleur |
2005 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$13,756.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 100 (3/2008): Exhibits a complex nose of crushed blackberry, dried flowers and dark chocolate. Full-bodied, with a rich, powerful palate. Tannic and muscular, with great length. Superracy. Builds and goes and goes. So fine and beautiful. Mythic. Best after 2017.
JS 100 (4/2011): The nose on this wine is classic. Floral notes of lilacs and violets, citrus fruits, raspberries, and blackberries. On the palate this is full bodied, with incredible power and density. A very impressive silky texture underneath the intense fruit flavors that gives way to an excitingly long, long finish. It’s hard to believe the classic structure in this. Impeccable balance. Don’t touch this for 10 years. Find the wine.
NM 98 (7/2012): Tasted at John Armit’s Lafleur seminar in London, the 2005 is a legendary wine in the making. It has a boisterous, ebullient, ravishing bouquet of succulent black, truffle infused fruit with hints of crushed stone, the bell pepper element less evident on this occasion. The palate is medium-bodied and tightly wound, perhaps less expressive than other bottles that I have encountered. You could argue that it has an almost understated entry, but then you realize that there is a core of extraordinarily concentrated dark black fruit that is waiting for you. It has wonderful minerality towards the finish and extremely fine focus and persistency. At the moment, a Lafleur of dimension and ambition rather than pleasure, which will come. Drink 2018-2035+.
WA 95+ (4/2008): The 2005 Lafleur is tight and austere at present, but unquestionably enormously endowed. It displays a dense ruby/purple hue as well as a beautiful bouquet that only emerges with coaxing. Aeration is essential in order to release the subtle, restrained scents of licorice, kirsch liqueur, black truffles, and flowers. In the mouth, there is compelling richness, depth, and intensity, but the wine’s power, full body, forbiddingly backward style, and high tannins suggest significant cellaring will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050.
VM 95 (6/2008): Saturated, bright ruby-red. Brooding, liqueur-like aromas of blackberry, cassis, smoked meat, licorice and menthol. Compellingly dense, sweet and concentrated, with silky fruit that saturates the entire palate without any excess weight. A very backward, firmly structured wine that offers an uncanny combination of early sweetness and firm but harmonious acidity. The wine's dark fruit and licorice flavors spread out impressively on the back end, which features huge but smooth tannins and terrific length and verve. Wow! This will be long-lived. |
|
| Pensees de Lafleur |
2005 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,669.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Lagrange |
2005 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,215.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 96 (7/2014): Stunning now. A fabulous nose of currants, crushed raspberry and blackberry. Full- bodied, with perfectly integrated tannins and a long, caressing finish. Drink or hold.
VM 93 (12/2020): The 2005 Lagrange was picked from 21 September until 10 October. It has a harmonious and vigorous bouquet with blackberry, cedar, tobacco aromas and just a light estuarine scent that emerges with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins and much more mid-palate presence than prior vintages. There is more body and grip, a sense of boldness towards the finish that should stand it in good stead for long-term ageing. Superb. Tasted at the Lagrange vertical at the estate. Neal Martin.
WS 93 (3/2008): Currant, mineral, plum and light toasty oak follow through to a full body, with ultrasilky tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is thoroughly beautiful. Superbalanced and very pretty. Best after 2011. 24,165 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Lascombes |
2005 |
Margaux (375 ML) |
$59.99 |
4 |
|
| |
WS 93 (3/2008): Dark in color, with an impressive nose of licorice, toasty oak, chocolate and blackberry. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Very pretty and structured. Best after 2012. 25,000 cases made.
NM 90 (2/2015): The Château Lascombes 2005 has one of the most extravagant bouquet from the Margaux appellation with copious red berry fruit, candied orange peel. marmalade and cedar scents that burst from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannin, a little more advanced than its peers with a slight dryness appearing towards the finish. I would have liked just a little more focus and cohesion here, though it can still boast impressive length.
WA 88+ (6/2015): Spicy oak, earth and cedar wood jump from the glass of this fruity, medium-bodied wine. It is not showing quite the density I would have expected, but it is still well-endowed and more evolved than some of the top efforts from the Margaux appellation. It has a dark, ruby/plum color, a slightly narrow finish, and less intensity than I remember. For whatever reason, this didn’t jump out of the horizontal tasting of the appellation of Margaux in 2005. Moreover, I loved this wine from barrel and post-bottling. |
|
| Ch. Leoville Barton |
2005 |
St. Julien (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,023.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (8/2022): The 2005 Léoville Las Cases is a classic that numbers among the wines of the vintage in the Médoc. Wafting from the glass with notes of dark berries, cassis, incense, burning embers, sweet soil tones, dark chocolate and cigar wrapper, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a vibrant core of fruit, lively acids and sweet, powdery tannins. More elegant and refined than the hulking, uncompromising 2006, the 2005 is nevertheless a powerful, tightly wound wine that will reward further bottle age, even if it's actually quite expressive today.
WS 96 (3/2008): Delivers breathtaking aromas of blackberry, currant, licorice and flowers. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and supersilky tannins. Dark chocolate, currant, berry and licorice follow through. This is racy and beautiful. Best after 2015. 20,375 cases made.
VM 98 (4/2021): The 2005 Léoville Las Cases is a classic that numbers among the wines of the vintage in the Médoc. Wafting from the glass with notes of dark berries, cassis, incense, burning embers, sweet soil tones, dark chocolate and cigar wrapper, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a vibrant core of fruit, lively acids and sweet, powdery tannins. More elegant and refined than the hulking, uncompromising 2006, the 2005 is nevertheless a powerful, tightly wound wine that will reward further bottle age, even if it's actually quite expressive today. Antonio Galloni.
JS 96 (12/2010): This offers aromas of spices, dried dark fruits, meat and berries. Full and muscular on the palate, with strong tannins and a long, long finish. This is very powerful and chewy, but a little bit tight. This is a wine for the cellar. Don't touch this until 2018. |
|
| Ch. Leoville Las Cases |
2005 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,301.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 99 (8/2012): A stunningly complex and complete nose of flowers, dark fruits, and minerals. Very perfumed and subtle at the same time. The palate is full, yet tight and powerful with perfect tannins and a long, long finish. The quality of the tannins is phenomenal, please leave this alone for ten years. Pull the cork in 2020.
VM 98 (11/2015): A wine for the ages, the 2005 Leoville Las Cases is slow to come out of the gate, but its beauty and pedigree are evident. The 2005 Las Cases is one of the only wines in this tasting that still needs time in bottle, something that won't come as a surprise to fans of this St. Julien estate. The 2005 offers plenty of the typical Las Cases power, but it is also remarkably nuanced and translucent for a wine of its sheer size. When all is said and done, it is in my top three or four wines of the night. Antonio Galloni.
WS 98 (12/2017): Sleek and racy, with black currant and fig fruit laced liberally with a bright iron streak and singed alder notes. This is very tightly coiled, as the fruit seems to be preserved for now, while the cold fireplace character holds sway. A superb energy in reserve gives this more than enough time to wait. Could outlast them all in this vintage.—Blind '01/'03/'05 Bordeaux retrospective (December 2017). Best from 2025 through 2050. 15,000 cases made.
WA 97+ (6/2015): This is a prodigious effort. A blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Merlot and Cabernet Franc (only 37% of the crop qualified for Las Cases), this dense ruby/purple wine has a stunningly pure bouquet of dark fruit, wet rocks, graphite, and subtle background toast/vanillin. Full-bodied, masculine, and very deep and concentrated, this titanic effort is at least 8-10 years away from its plateau of maturity. The Delon family have produced another legend. Anticipated maturity: 2023-2050+.
NM 95+ (2/2015): The Château Leoville Las-Cases 2005 has a surprisingly backward bouquet that has clearly decided to let Poyferre have all the fun at the moment. This is very well defined but extremely tight, reluctantly offering blackberry, wet tobacco and iris scents to eke from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and acidity. It is not as deep or as concentrated as I was anticipating, brutally shy in the glass with a linear finish that says: “Come back another day.” Say in 2025. |
|
| Ch. Lynch Bages |
2005 |
Pauillac |
$219 |
6 |
|
| |
WS 96 (7/2018): Textbook, with mouthfilling and slightly gutsy black currant, fig and blackberry fruit flavors bound together by singed cedar, iron and tobacco notes. Features a tug of loam followed by a second wave of fruit through the finish. This is just starting to stretch out. Best from 2020 through 2040. 35,000 cases made.
VM 95+ (4/2021): The 2005 Lynch-Bages is a surprising wine. Whereas so many 2005s have begun to enter their first plateau of early maturity, the 2005 comes across as still young and in need of further cellaring! The purity of the fruit is striking. Readers who want to get the full Lynch-Bages experience will have to wait at least a few more years. The 2005 is a wine of substance and depth, with all of the raciness that is typical of this wine. It is one of the dark horses of the vintage, and still has room to go. Impressive. Antonio Galloni.
JS 96 (11/2015): A meaty and decadent Lynch with very ripe currant aromas on the nose. Full body, velvety-textured tannins and a powerful finish. It shows so much structure and fruit yet remains polished and focused. Lovely now to drink but better in 2017.
WA 92 (6/2016): As for the 2005 Lynch-Bages, it is a sexy, surprisingly soft and accessible style of wine, with a deep ruby/purple color, loads of crème de cassis, cedar wood and forest floor notes, medium to full body, ripe tannin and a long, fleshy finish. Drink it over the next 15+ years. |
|
|
2005 |
Pauillac (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,374.98 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 96 (7/2018): Textbook, with mouthfilling and slightly gutsy black currant, fig and blackberry fruit flavors bound together by singed cedar, iron and tobacco notes. Features a tug of loam followed by a second wave of fruit through the finish. This is just starting to stretch out. Best from 2020 through 2040. 35,000 cases made.
VM 95+ (4/2021): The 2005 Lynch-Bages is a surprising wine. Whereas so many 2005s have begun to enter their first plateau of early maturity, the 2005 comes across as still young and in need of further cellaring! The purity of the fruit is striking. Readers who want to get the full Lynch-Bages experience will have to wait at least a few more years. The 2005 is a wine of substance and depth, with all of the raciness that is typical of this wine. It is one of the dark horses of the vintage, and still has room to go. Impressive. Antonio Galloni.
JS 96 (11/2015): A meaty and decadent Lynch with very ripe currant aromas on the nose. Full body, velvety-textured tannins and a powerful finish. It shows so much structure and fruit yet remains polished and focused. Lovely now to drink but better in 2017.
WA 92 (6/2016): As for the 2005 Lynch-Bages, it is a sexy, surprisingly soft and accessible style of wine, with a deep ruby/purple color, loads of crème de cassis, cedar wood and forest floor notes, medium to full body, ripe tannin and a long, fleshy finish. Drink it over the next 15+ years. |
|
| Ch. Margaux |
2005 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$9,792.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 100 (11/2010): The nose on this seems more concentrated than the 2000, and the purity of fruit is stunning, with blueberries, raspberries, fresh flowers, and hints of licorice. This is perfect and complete. Full bodied, with notes of forest berries and wild raspberries, this is thick and velvety with perfectly polished tannins. You can really feel the density on this, more than the tannic structure. This is a sleeping beauty that will be utterly captivating when it awakes. Don't touch this until after 2015.
VM 99 (4/2021): In two recent tastings the 2005 Château Margaux has been nothing less than magnificent. A wine of stunning perfume and inner sweetness, the 2005 gradually opens to reveal layers of red-toned fruit intermingled with floral accents. It's as if all the classic Margaux signatures have been amped up in a huge way. Dehydration on the vine concentrated the fruit, but also the impression of tannin and acid, such that the 2005 retains huge fruit density along with plenty of brightness as well. Vibrant and beautifully layered, the 2005 Grand Vin is off the charts and easily one of the wines of the vintage. Readers who own it or can find it are in for a real treat. Tasted two times. Antonio Galloni.
WA 98+ (6/2015): The first-growth 2005 Château Margaux (85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot), a lavish fragrance of blackcurrants, velvety new saddle leather, spring flowers and spice soars from the glass. The wood is already totally concealed beneath the cascade of fruit in this medium to full-bodied, pure and majestic wine. This concentrated, dense, but nevertheless strikingly elegant, multi-layered wine has a finish of 45+ seconds. It builds incrementally to a crescendo and finale. This is a stunner that can be approached already, but promises to be better in another 5-10 years and last at least 25 or more years.
WS 97 (12/2017): Still very tight, but there are whispers of alder, bay leaf, tobacco and singed sandalwood aromas here. They give way to a beautifully silky and refined, but extremely concentrated, core of cassis and blackberry fruit that has gained a lightly mulled hint. The long finish shows echoes of dark earth and iron that bring you back for more. A beauty, with a long way to go. Best from 2025 through 2045. 10,833 cases made. |
|
|
2005 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,886.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 100 (11/2010): The nose on this seems more concentrated than the 2000, and the purity of fruit is stunning, with blueberries, raspberries, fresh flowers, and hints of licorice. This is perfect and complete. Full bodied, with notes of forest berries and wild raspberries, this is thick and velvety with perfectly polished tannins. You can really feel the density on this, more than the tannic structure. This is a sleeping beauty that will be utterly captivating when it awakes. Don't touch this until after 2015.
VM 99 (4/2021): In two recent tastings the 2005 Château Margaux has been nothing less than magnificent. A wine of stunning perfume and inner sweetness, the 2005 gradually opens to reveal layers of red-toned fruit intermingled with floral accents. It's as if all the classic Margaux signatures have been amped up in a huge way. Dehydration on the vine concentrated the fruit, but also the impression of tannin and acid, such that the 2005 retains huge fruit density along with plenty of brightness as well. Vibrant and beautifully layered, the 2005 Grand Vin is off the charts and easily one of the wines of the vintage. Readers who own it or can find it are in for a real treat. Tasted two times. Antonio Galloni.
WA 98+ (6/2015): The first-growth 2005 Château Margaux (85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot), a lavish fragrance of blackcurrants, velvety new saddle leather, spring flowers and spice soars from the glass. The wood is already totally concealed beneath the cascade of fruit in this medium to full-bodied, pure and majestic wine. This concentrated, dense, but nevertheless strikingly elegant, multi-layered wine has a finish of 45+ seconds. It builds incrementally to a crescendo and finale. This is a stunner that can be approached already, but promises to be better in another 5-10 years and last at least 25 or more years.
WS 97 (12/2017): Still very tight, but there are whispers of alder, bay leaf, tobacco and singed sandalwood aromas here. They give way to a beautifully silky and refined, but extremely concentrated, core of cassis and blackberry fruit that has gained a lightly mulled hint. The long finish shows echoes of dark earth and iron that bring you back for more. A beauty, with a long way to go. Best from 2025 through 2045. 10,833 cases made. |
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| Ch. Montrose |
2005 |
St. Estephe (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,589.97 |
1 |
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WA 98 (2/2022): The 2005 Montrose continues to show brilliantly, unwinding in the glass with notes of blackcurrant, red fruits, loamy soil, black truffles and cigar ash. Full-bodied, deep and concentrated, it's still brooding and tannic, with lively acids and an imposing chassis of structuring—and artery-cleansing—extract. Still an adolescent, it's one of the last unrepentantly old-school vintages of Montrose, and Médoc purists couldn't own enough. While this remains a very youthful wine, it is now apparent that the 2005 will, at maturity, surpass the 1989 and 1990.
VM 97 (4/2021): The 2005 Montrose is spectacular. Bright, perfumed and vertically explosive, the 2005 possesses remarkable energy right out of the gate. In 2005, Montrose doesn't quite have the heft that it can, but that actually works to its advantage. Readers will find a wine that marries elegance with power so well. Gravel, dried herb, lavender and mocha lend striking complexity to the dark fruit in this gorgeous, regal Montrose. If anything, the 2005 still needs more time in bottle! Antonio Galloni.
JS 96 (11/2015): his continues to be very tight yet I loved drinking it the other night at dinner. Loads of spices, berries, meat, cloves and chocolate on the nose. Full body with soft, silky tannins and lots of rich fruit. Still chewy. This is just starting to open up now. Drink or hold.
WS 95 (12/2017): This is still a bit dark and brooding, with a charcoal frame around well-steeped fig and black currant fruit. The long finish lets a deep river of smoldering tobacco and warm stone notes course through. Austere and seemingly taciturn, yet thoroughly beautiful. May not be your style, but this is undeniable. Best from 2022 through 2042. 25,555 cases made.
JD 95 (12/2018): The 2005 Montrose continues to drink beautifully, with a complex yet powerful bouquet of blackcurrants, black raspberries, new saddle leather, tobacco leaf, and spice. This beauty has a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, a supple style, sweet tannins, and is a charming, layered and ready to go Montrose that has loads to love. It continues to be surprisingly accessible and is a beauty to drink over the coming two decades. |
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| Les Pagodes de Cos |
2005 |
St. Estephe (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$994.98 |
2 |
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WA 90 (4/2008): The second wine, the 2005 Les Pagodes de Cos, is already delicious. Offering plenty of cedar, cappuccino, and black cherry notes in a medium-bodied, seamless style with no hard edges, it will provide plenty of pleasure over the next decade.
VM 87-89 (6/2006): (a 50/50 blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot) Ruby-red. Coolish aromas of black cherry and licorice. Supple, fresh and fruit-driven, with enticing floral lift to the sweet, pliant flavors. Finishes with ripe tannins. Excellent for this second wine. |
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| Ch. Pape-Clement |
2005 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,403.97 |
1 |
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WA 99 (6/2015): Owned by Bernard Magrez, this great terroir a few miles from Haut Brion and La Mission Haut Brion has produced one of the superstars of the vintage. A blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, Pape Clement’s 2005 has an opaque purple color and smoky barbecue and chocolaty notes intermixed with cassis and blackberries. There is also some underlying minerality in this full-bodied, super-concentrated wine, which has wonderfully sweet, well-integrated tannins. This majestic, multidimensional wines is one of the great, great wines of the vintage. It should drink well for at least another 25 years.
VM 97 (11/2015): The 2005 Pape Clement is a fabulous contrast to the Haut-Brion. The former represents modernism at its best, while the latter is one of the archetypes of classicism. Both are striking. Compelling and seductive from the outset, the 2005 Pape Clement races out of the glass with notable opulence and ripeness. Soft contours and heady aromatics make the 2005 a real joy to taste today. Just beginning to show the first signs of aromatic complexity, the 2005 Pape Clement looks like it won't be as long-lived as some of the other wines in this tasting, but it is extraordinarily beautiful today. The style is unapologetically flamboyant, yet all the elements are in the right place. When it comes to pure hedonistic pleasure, it's hard to match the 2005 Pape Clement. Antonio Galloni.
NM 96 (7/2010): The Pape-Clement 2005 has a surprisingly reticent nose at first but then blossoms in the glass to reveal a wine with impressive lift and delineation, very fine minerality developing in the glass with scents of blackberry, wild hedgerow, liquorice and black olive. The palate is medium-bodied but seems to develop more sinew in the glass. It has a firm structure: masculine with dark black fruits, tobacco, cedar and a touch of plum. Very good focus and poise, long and persistent on the tightly wound finish with a saline tang on the finish. It will require a few more years to reach its plateau. Drink 2015-2030.
WS 96 (3/2008): Dark in color, offering wonderful aromas of licorice, berry, fresh tobacco and currant, with Indian spices. Complex and full-bodied, with supersilky tannins that caress every inch of the palate. Long and satisfying. A joy to taste this young wine. Best after 2015. 7,500 cases made. |
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| Ch. Pavie |
2005 |
St. Emilion (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,519.97 |
1 |
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WS 100 (6/2008): I love the purity of fruit in this wine, with perfectly ripe blackberry, blueberry and raspberry on the nose. Complex and full-bodied, with hints of new oak and wonderfully polished tannins that caress the palate. Long, long finish. This is not the blockbuster it was from barrel, but rather a complete, balanced and gorgeous red. Best after 2015. 7,100 cases made.
WA 98+ (4/2008): Now that the 2005 Pavie is in the bottle, I would place it, qualitatively, a notch below the prodigious 2000, and a few notches above the blockbuster 2003. There are 7,000 cases of this 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Disregarding the blatant jealousy of his success as well as his “outsider" status, proprietor Gerard Perse has pushed the envelope of quality, fashioning first-growth quality wines from one of Bordeaux’s finest terroirs. In St.-Emilion, only Ausone can be considered to have greater potential in terms of micro-climate and terroir. Pavie’s 2005 exhibits a thick-looking purple color to the rim as well as an exquisite perfume of blueberry and blackberry liqueur, unsmoked cigar tobacco, crushed rocks, damp earth, and hints of truffles and incense. The vineyard’s limestone soils have provided massive concentration, a laser-like precision, fresh, zesty acidity, and massive tannin. Despite the wine’s enormous concentration and intensity, there is a lightness to its style. As Perse has made clear, he is trying to produce modern day versions of such great vintages as 1921, 1929, 1945, and 1947, wines that lasted 50 or more years. I do not understand why Perse receives so much criticism. In the blind tastings of each new vintage conducted by the Grand Jury European, Pavie usually wins against 100 or so other great Bordeaux. As they say, the truth is irrefutable - this is one of the world’s most Outstanding wines, and the 2005 Pavie should take its place among the greatest achievements of Bordeaux in the last 50 years. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060.
VM 96 (6/2008): Saturated, deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines blackberry, minerals, crushed rock, truffle, vanillin oak and flowers; showing none of the porty quality of the sample I tried last year. A hugely concentrated essence of a wine, offering an incredible combination of sweetness, vibrancy and precision of fruit, thanks to strong acidity and powerful underlying minerality. The chewy tannins are totally buffered by the wine's material on the explosive back end. This wine has it all! Compared to the Pavie-Decesse, which essentially comes from a single block of old vines on limestone, this wine has clearly benefited by being an assemblage of soil types, with fruit from the foot of the slope contributing texture and richness. The 2005 Pavie should easily last for three or four decades. |
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2005 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,672.97 |
1 |
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WS 100 (6/2008): I love the purity of fruit in this wine, with perfectly ripe blackberry, blueberry and raspberry on the nose. Complex and full-bodied, with hints of new oak and wonderfully polished tannins that caress the palate. Long, long finish. This is not the blockbuster it was from barrel, but rather a complete, balanced and gorgeous red. Best after 2015. 7,100 cases made.
WA 98+ (4/2008): Now that the 2005 Pavie is in the bottle, I would place it, qualitatively, a notch below the prodigious 2000, and a few notches above the blockbuster 2003. There are 7,000 cases of this 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Disregarding the blatant jealousy of his success as well as his “outsider" status, proprietor Gerard Perse has pushed the envelope of quality, fashioning first-growth quality wines from one of Bordeaux’s finest terroirs. In St.-Emilion, only Ausone can be considered to have greater potential in terms of micro-climate and terroir. Pavie’s 2005 exhibits a thick-looking purple color to the rim as well as an exquisite perfume of blueberry and blackberry liqueur, unsmoked cigar tobacco, crushed rocks, damp earth, and hints of truffles and incense. The vineyard’s limestone soils have provided massive concentration, a laser-like precision, fresh, zesty acidity, and massive tannin. Despite the wine’s enormous concentration and intensity, there is a lightness to its style. As Perse has made clear, he is trying to produce modern day versions of such great vintages as 1921, 1929, 1945, and 1947, wines that lasted 50 or more years. I do not understand why Perse receives so much criticism. In the blind tastings of each new vintage conducted by the Grand Jury European, Pavie usually wins against 100 or so other great Bordeaux. As they say, the truth is irrefutable - this is one of the world’s most Outstanding wines, and the 2005 Pavie should take its place among the greatest achievements of Bordeaux in the last 50 years. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060.
VM 96 (6/2008): Saturated, deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines blackberry, minerals, crushed rock, truffle, vanillin oak and flowers; showing none of the porty quality of the sample I tried last year. A hugely concentrated essence of a wine, offering an incredible combination of sweetness, vibrancy and precision of fruit, thanks to strong acidity and powerful underlying minerality. The chewy tannins are totally buffered by the wine's material on the explosive back end. This wine has it all! Compared to the Pavie-Decesse, which essentially comes from a single block of old vines on limestone, this wine has clearly benefited by being an assemblage of soil types, with fruit from the foot of the slope contributing texture and richness. The 2005 Pavie should easily last for three or four decades. |
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| Ch. Pichon-Longueville Baron |
2005 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,536.98 |
1 |
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JD 96 (12/2017): The 2005 Pichon-Longueville Baron is another concentrated, full-bodied 2005 that’s starting to drink well. Cassis, black cherries, tobacco leaf, cedar and classic Pauillac lead-pencil characteristics all emerge from this ripe, sexy, surprisingly rounded effort that has a stacked mid-palate and sweet, polished tannin. It’s impressive today but is going to cruise for another two to three decades.
VM 94+ (6/2008): Dark red-ruby. Multidimensional nose offers deep aromas of currant, cedar, coffee, tobacco and minerals. The palate offers a rare combination of sweetness, energy and depth, with superb grip and a layered texture to the flavors of plum, cedar, tobacco and minerals. The finish features sweet, noble tannins and Outstanding length. I find this more complete and ultimately more exciting than the 2003, but this will need at least a decade of cellaring.
Stephen Tanzer.
WS 94 (3/2008): Offers crushed currant and blackberry on the nose, turning to tar and licorice. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and seamless tannins. Goes on and on. Very, very beautiful. A cross between the 2000 and fabulous 2003. Best after 2013. 20,000 cases made.
NM 94 (2/2015): The Château Pichon-Baron 2005 has a not dissimilar bouquet to the Pichon-Lalande with bright red and black fruit infused with cedar and violets, almost Margaux-like in character. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannin: more masculine than Pichon-Lalande, you could almost say more rustic. Yet there is immense length and persistence here, real depth and vigour on the muscular finish. Yet I might just prefer the property over the road in this vintage.
WA 93 (6/2015): The 2005 Pichon Baron has a dense ruby/purple color, sweet crème de cassis fruit, lots of cedar wood and forest floor, medium to full body, ripe tannin, and a long finish of a good 30+ seconds. This is a beauty and one of the most successful Pauillacs of this vintage. Drink it now through 2035. |
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| Ch. Pichon-Longueville Lalande |
2005 |
Pauillac (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$883.97 |
2 |
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JS 97 (1/2018): This shows spices, pepper, blueberries and blackcurrants on the nose. Full body, very polished tannins and a long and beautiful finish. Shows such gorgeous texture. Precise and transparent. Try in 2022.
NM 95 (2/2015): The Château Pichon-Lalande 2005 that was so divisive at birth but as I expected right from the beginning, this is maturing into a lovely Pauillac. It offers compelling tobacco and graphite scents on the nose, belying the Merlot content of this blend, reserved at first but opening gloriously in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin and well-judged acidity. There is an effortlessness quality about this Pichon-Lalande. ‘tis not the most powerful or decadent Pauillac but its is very sophisticated and refined.
WS 94 (12/2017): Juicy and sleek in feel, with a gloss of singed vanilla and alder over the core of lively blackberry, fig and black currant paste flavors. Singed charcoal and sweet tobacco notes score the finish and leave a mouthwatering feel. A tough decision whether to drink now or wait, as both choices will be rewarded. Drink now through 2035. 22,000 cases made. |
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| Le Pin |
2005 |
Pomerol Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$2,900 |
1 |
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| JD 98 (4/2024): ) The 2005 Château Le Pin is all Merlot from a tiny vineyard just across from Vieux Château Certain and was raised in new barrels. It has a massive nose of ripe blackberries, kirsch, saddle leather, smoked tobacco, and Mediterranean herbs that turns more floral and violet-laced with air. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully balanced on the palate with ultra-fine tannins, it has an almost Burgundian-like elegance and seamlessness as well as incredible length. It’s not the biggest example from vineyard yet it shows the inherent quality and elegance of the Chateau. Drink bottles over the coming 15-20 years. |
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2005 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$24,415.97 |
1 |
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| JD 98 (4/2024): ) The 2005 Château Le Pin is all Merlot from a tiny vineyard just across from Vieux Château Certain and was raised in new barrels. It has a massive nose of ripe blackberries, kirsch, saddle leather, smoked tobacco, and Mediterranean herbs that turns more floral and violet-laced with air. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully balanced on the palate with ultra-fine tannins, it has an almost Burgundian-like elegance and seamlessness as well as incredible length. It’s not the biggest example from vineyard yet it shows the inherent quality and elegance of the Chateau. Drink bottles over the coming 15-20 years. |
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| Ch. Pontet Canet |
2005 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,118.97 |
2 |
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JD 98 (8/2021): Always showing well, this bottle of 2005 Château Pontet Canet was just about pure perfection in a glass. Still youthful ruby/purple-hued, with a gorgeous core of pure cassis and darker currant fruits, it's full-bodied and has a stacked mid-palate, building tannins, and textbook Pauillac graphite, lead pencil, and subtle tobacco and cedar aromas and flavors. It's a big, rich, powerful 2005 with flawlessly integrated tannins, remarkable purity, and a finish that won't quit. While it's still another 5-10 years away from being completely mature, it unquestionably offers incredible pleasure today.
WA 97 (7/2016): Tasted at the Pontet-Canet vertical in London, the 2005 Château Pontet-Canet has long been one of the stars of the vintage and this might well be the best of over a dozen showings of this wine. However, do not expect ostentation on the nose. This is 2005 and like many wines of this vintage, even with considerable decanting, it remained broody and introspective on the nose, as if it is checking you out and seeing if you are worthy. Once you have been accepted, then it swings the doors open to reveal gorgeous scents of blackberry, briary and cassis fruit, perhaps a little more sous-bois than I have noticed compared to previous bottles. The palate is medium-bodied, but dense and structured—certainly a more masculine Pontet-Canet built for long-term ageing. Yet it retains marvelous freshness and vitality all the way through to the pencil-lead, quite saline finish. I suspect that the 2009 Pontet-Canet is more approachable than the 2005, so heeding Robert Parker's sage advice, afford this up to ten years in your cellar and then reap the rewards of patience.
WS 96 (12/2017): Warm, fleshy and inviting, featuring a gush of blackberry, fig and boysenberry compote flavors that are both primal and approachable, with light anise, sweet tobacco and ganache notes filling in behind. Shows a serious, deeply buried iron and cedar spine, as the fruit is just pumping forth now. Drink now through 2035. 20,830 cases made.
VM 96 (4/2021): The 2005 Pontet-Canet is a heady, exotic wine. Inky dark fruit, mocha, chocolate, licorice, spice and tobacco are front and center. Readers will find an unabashedly opulent, full-throttle 2005 with quite a bit more oak influence and overall extraction than is the norm these days. Even so, the 2005 is a young, young wine with a bright future. This is one sexy Pauillac, that's for sure. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Ch. Poujeaux |
2005 |
Moulis (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$839.97 |
1 |
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NM 90 (7/2011): Tasted at BBR’s 2005/2009 tasting in London. The Poujeaux ’05 has a classic bouquet with graphite and tobacco with good precision and mineralite, growing in intensity in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with a tertiary entry, quite powdery in texture with fine, grippy tannins leading to a foursquare, robust finish. Come back in five or six years.
WA 89 (4/2008): This deep ruby/purple-tinged sleeper of the vintage exhibits fresh, lively minerality intermixed with delicate background wood, sweet raspberry fruit, medium to full body, zesty acidity, and ripe tannin. Usually the top wine from Moulis, Poujeaux’s 2005 is again a fairly priced, impressive effort. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. |
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| Ch. Prieure Lichine |
2005 |
Margaux (24x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$994.97 |
1 |
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WA 92 (4/2008): The finest Prieure-Lichine I have ever tasted, the sensational 2005 has unquestionably benefitted from the improvements made at this property as well as the consultation work of Stephane Derenoncourt. Its dense purple color is accompanied by a glorious perfume of forest floor, blackberries, incense, and cassis. Opulent, with sweet tannin for the vintage, excellent purity, and a savory, broad, expansive mouthfeel that lingers on the palate, it possesses the delicacy of a terrific Margaux as well as enough concentration and power to give it an extra dimension. This wine should be drinkable in 4-5 years, and last for 25 or more. Bravo!
WS 92 (3/2008): Black in color, with impressive aromas of flowers, tar, licorice and ripe fruit, such as currant and sultana. Full-bodied, with a solid concentration of fruit and ultrapolished tannins. Better than from barrel. Best after 2011. 15,500 cases made.
VM 90 (6/2008): Bright ruby-red. Cassis, bitter chocolate, nutty oak and a whiff of sweet butter on the nose. Fat, sweet and fairly full-bodied, with mocha and smoke notes and a suggestion of lees (consultant Stephane Derenoncourt does a lot of work with the lees and minimal racking here). At once fruity and solid, finishing with ripe, granular tannins.
NM 88+ (1/2009): Tasted single blind at Southwold. This has a more delicate nose here with black berries, dark cherries and violets but lacking some vigour. The palate is very ripe, fine tannins, nice weight, overtly ‘modern’ in style with lavish new oak although it is very linear and lacking some personality towards the finish. This tasted better in barrel and I hope that it will improve with further bottle age. Drink 2012-2028. |
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| Ch. Rauzan-Segla |
2005 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,322.97 |
2 |
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JS 97 (5/2012): This is a fabulous wine. A very giving wine with an amazing nose of currants, strawberries and flowers. This is a gorgeous wine. Full and powerful, with chewy and ripe tannins and a long, long finish. A serious, structured wine that still needs some time in the bottle. Don’t touch this for another five or six years. Pull the cork after 2016.
WS 97 (3/2008): Very beautiful aromas of crushed berry, flowers, currant and Indian spices follow through to a full body, with ultrafine tannins and a long, long finish. Extremely polished and beautiful, with a seamless texture. Best after 2014. 10,000 cases made.
NM 95 (1/2009): Tasted single blind at Southwold. After a couple of vexing showing out of barrel, this Rauzan-Segla is finally proving its mettle and I happily upgrade my score. Tasted blind, it shines amongst its peers with a well defined nose: blackberry, crushed stones and a touch of oyster shell. Great clarity. This is very well balanced on the palate, nice acidity, fresh, tannic backbone and really great focus. Sophisticated from start to finish. It has beautifully interwoven oak. This will be a great Rauzan-Segla but as always it needs patient cellaring. Drink 2015-2030+.
WA 93+ (6/2015): The 2005 Rauzan-Segla displays notes of bay leaf, blackcurrants, earth and spice. It has a very youthful, dense ruby/plum/purple color, a medium to full body, with tannins still present and a nice, spicy aftertaste. The wine is firm and still somewhat adolescent. Give it another 3-4 years, and drink it over the following 15-20.
VM 92 (6/2008): Good full red-ruby. Inviting, expressive aromas of plum, redcurrant, mocha, coffee, game, flowers and nutty oak. Sweet, fat and stuffed with fruit; quite silky in texture but a bit less refined than the 2006 in spite of its greater richness. Fairly full wine, finishing with lovely lingering perfume as well as slightly edgy tannins that will require a decade of cellaring. |
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| Ch. Rol Valentin |
2005 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$765.98 |
6 |
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| WA 92 (6/2015): A sexy, full-bodied, very drinkable style of 2005, Eric Prissette’s 2005 Rol Valentin displays loads of black cherry fruit, licorice, Christmas fruitcake and spice. Full-bodied and opulent, it can be drunk over the next 10-15 years. |
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2005 |
St. Emilion (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$553.97 |
1 |
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| WA 92 (6/2015): A sexy, full-bodied, very drinkable style of 2005, Eric Prissette’s 2005 Rol Valentin displays loads of black cherry fruit, licorice, Christmas fruitcake and spice. Full-bodied and opulent, it can be drunk over the next 10-15 years. |
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| Ch. Smith Haut Lafitte |
2005 |
Pessac Leognan (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,422.97 |
1 |
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WA 95 (4/2008): One can’t say enough about the accomplishments the Cathiards have achieved at this property since 1990. Prior to their purchase of the property, appallingly diluted, vegetal, fruitless, charmless wines were produced, but they have turned Smith-Haut-Lafitte into a showcase Pessac-Leognan. The inky/blue/purple-tinged 2005's extraordinary nose reeks of charcoal, incense, scorched earth, abundant blackberry, blueberry, and cherry fruit, toast, and spice. Good acidity, huge but sweet tannin, and fabulous precision as well as definition characterize this full-bodied, super-concentrated effort. It should prove to be among the longest-lived wines yet made by the Cathiards. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+.
VM 93 (6/2008): Good fresh red-ruby color. Reticent but pure aromas of plum, mocha and tobacco. This began sweet and dense but a bit sullen, then exploded with aeration to show sharply delineated flavors of plum, tobacco, hot stones and smoked meat. Wonderfully fat and full wine that spreads out on the back to saturate the entire palate. This makes the '07 seem peppery and high-pitched in comparison. Very long on the aftertaste. I asked technical director Teitgen to name his favorite recent vintages in Pessac-Leognan, and he listed 1998, 2001 and 2005.
WS 93 (3/2008): Very grapey, with black licorice and mineral character. Full-bodied, with hints of new wood and spices. Big and velvety. This is balanced and very silky, with harmonious yet chewy tannins. This is a different style from the 2003, but it's equally impressive. A wonderful young wine. Best after 2013. 8,000 cases made. |
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| Ch. St. Pierre |
2005 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,174.97 |
2 |
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WA 94 (6/2015): Possibly one of two of the most concentrated St.-Juliens (Leoville Las Cases is the other), this 2005 shows wonderfully sweet tannin, a dense ruby/purple color, and lots of crème de cassis, licorice and spice. Full-bodied, opulent, and impressive, it is surprisingly soft, though it will certainly age nicely for 15-20+ years.
WS 93 (3/2008): A very beautiful red, with blackberry, licorice and currant on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and lots of smoke, berry, coffee and dark chocolate flavors on the finish. The best wine from this producer in ages. Best after 2014. 5,000 cases made.
VM 92 (6/2008): Good red-ruby color. Superripe aromas of plum, mocha and graphite. Silky-sweet, deep and broad, with terrific concentration of currant and licorice flavors complicated by leather, herbs and pepper. Finishes with thoroughly ripe, broad tannins and noteworthy length and power. Costanzo says this wine needs another six months in bottle to gain in nuance. |
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| Ch. Trotte Vieille |
2005 |
St. Emilion Ex-Negociant |
$169 |
5 |
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| WA 93 (6/2015): Owned by the Castéja family, Trottevieille has one parcel of some of the oldest vines in St.-Emilion. Dense purple, the 2005 is better at age 10 then earlier. The wine has beautiful blueberry, plum and blackcurrant fruit, an attractive underlying minerality, medium to full body, sweet tannin, and a long, layered, complex finish. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. |
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