“From one of my favorite lower pedigree estates, this blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Malbec is produced by consulting winemaker, Stephane Derenoncourt. Beautifully etched with a deep purple color as well as a sweet perfume of mocha, vanilla, and black cherry jam, fresh acidity, super texture, and a heady finish (13.5% natural alcohol), it should be consumed during its first 5-7 years of life.” —WA 88-90, PJ 91

“Although it is produced from a separate vineyard, Balthus is in essence the special cuvee of Chateau de Reignac. Cropped at 15 hectoliters per hectare, both its alcoholic and malolactic fermentations take place in small barrels (an unusual as well as labor intensive technique), and the wine is aged on its lees before being bottled unfiltered. The blockbuster 2005 boasts an inky/purple color, 14.5% natural alcohol, and a huge, charcoal-infused nose revealing notions of graphite, melted chocolate, espresso, and creme de cassis. This is a terrific example of what can be achieved by a conscientious proprietor using artisanal techniques and treating the vineyard like a precious jewel.” —WA 92-94

“Possibly the finest Reignac I have ever tasted from proprietor Yves Vatelot, this superlative blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon is treated like a spoiled child, aged on its lees, and bottled unfiltered. There are over 16,000 cases of this cuvee, which should be uncommonly long-lived for a wine of this pedigree. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of blackberries, cherries, smoke, and pain grille. Deep, full-bodied, moderately tannic, fresh, and well-delineated, with 14% natural alcohol, it should drink well for 10-12 years.” —WA 91-93

“The Cotes de Castillon offering from perfectionists Chantal and Gerard Perse, the 2005 Clos des Lunelles, fashioned from yields of 20 hectoliters per hectare, is a candidate for the reference point wine of the appellation. Inky/blue/purple-colored with stunning aromas of spring flowers, sweet cherries, black currants, crushed rocks, and new oak, it possesses fabulous fruit, remarkable intensity and texture, full body, and a huge, moderately tannic finish.” —WA 91-94

“Clos Puy Arnaud is nearly always a seriously made as well as potentially long-lived offering, as evidenced by the 2005. This blend of 60% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Carmenere boasts a saturated blue/purple color in addition to a sweet nose of black raspberries, cranberries, crushed rocks, and background wood. Displaying terrific old vine intensity, it hits the palate with a rush of fruit, glycerin, and tannin. With good structure, purity, and potential, it will require 2-3 years to settle down, and should last for 15 or more years.” —WA 90-92, PJ 92+

“Owned by Stephan von Neipperg, this sensational Cotes de Castillon exhibits a dense purple color as well as a gorgeously sweet bouquet of melted chocolate, blackberries, cassis, and cherries. A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, it is an opulent, rich effort to enjoy during its first 10-12 years of life.” —WA 89-91 PJ 92

Yet another 2005 Côtes de Castillon standout, the Ste-Colombe features fragrant plum and dark berry notes accented with coffee nuances. On the palate it is bright and medium-bodied with fine tannins and a pleasingly soft finish. A tremendous value. PJ 89+

“Another excellent vintage for Bordeaux's dry whites, which tend to be vastly underrated and exceptionally long-lived (30-40 years in some cases). The 2005s possess crisp acidity as well as serious weight, richness, and texture. Space constraints did not allow full tasting notes, but this is one of the top 2005 dry white Bordeaux wines.” —WA 89-90

“An undeniable sleeper of the vintage, this brilliant effort from the Cotes de Francs is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Stephane Derenoncourt, the estate's winemaking consultant, has fashioned a 2005 boasting 14.5% alcohol that is remarkably fresh as well as superbly concentrated. This classic, powerful, ageworthy claret should last for 10-15 years or more.” —WA 89-91

“Blackberry, violet and raspberry aromas. Full-bodied, with lots of fruit. Long and powerful. Complex and excellent.” —WS 89-91

Medium ruby. Aromas of blackberry, kirsch, minerals, espresso and mocha, all lifted by sweet oak. Lush, suave and lively, with nicely integrated acids giving this sweet, pliant wine good balance and vivacity. Finishes ripely tannic and quite long, with finishing notes of blackberry and licorice. A very classy vintage for this chateau, with no rough edges.” —IWC 88-91

“This is a wonderful Fronsac with blackberry and licorice character. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Classy for this appellation.” —WS 89-91, PJ 89+

“Lots of berry and chocolate character with hints of vanilla. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and silky tannins. Impressive. Almost hard to believe, it's so good. Almost 92-94.” —WS 89-91

“One of the most consistent Cru Bourgeois over the last 10-15 years, this 10,000-case blend of 50% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot achieved 13+% natural alcohol. Its inky/blue/purple color is accompanied by an intense perfume of flowers, blue and black fruits, licorice, and subtle wood. The 2005 is more powerful, richly concentrated, and nuanced than usual. With decent acidity, moderate tannin, and a blockbuster finish, it should drink well for 10-12 years.” —WA 89-91

“Space limitations did not allow complete tasting notes for this Cru Bourgeois, but 2005 is the finest vintage for these wines since 1982. The range of scores for these wines should give readers an idea of just how consistent this vintage is at this level. Given the style of the vintage, most of these wines should be accessible young yet evolve for a decade or more because of their concentration and tannic structure.” —WA 88-89

“Crushed blackberries and currants on the nose follow through to a full-bodied palate, with medium tannins and a medium finish. Best in years from here.” —WS 89-91

“Starting in 2005, the luxury cuvee, Karolus, will no longer be made as the proprietors believe they have raised the level of Senejac to that of a luxury wine. The 10,000-case 2005, made by well-known oenologist, Jacques Boissenot (a disciple of the late Emile Peynaud), is the finest I have yet tasted. Its saturated ruby/purple color is accompanied by rich aromas of licorice, forest floor, blackberries, and chocolate-infused black currants. This medium-bodied, moderately tannic, rich wine is clearly of classified-growth quality. It will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring, and last for 12-14 years.” —WA 90-92

“As one might expect, proprietor Jean Gautreau has produced an uncompromisingly, potentially enormously long-lived 2005 that is as good as most Medoc cru classes. Based on previous vintages, it will undoubtedly require 10-12 years of cellaring. Its saturated blue/purple color is followed by a sumptuous bouquet of blueberries, white flowers, and minerals. Fresh, full-bodied, well-defined, and already revealing plenty of nuances, this intensely concentrated, impeccably pure effort is a classic vin de garde.” —WA 92-94

“A blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Merlot, proprietor Bernard Magrez continues to demonstrate a sure touch at this Haut-Medoc estate. Fashioned from yields of 42 hectoliters per hectare, it is a powerful, dense, extracted, deep ruby/purple-hued, medium to full-bodied effort with high tannin, but beautiful purity as well as sweetness. It should turn out to be as good as the brilliant 2001 La Tour Carnet. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025.” —WA 90-92

“Intense aromas of blackberry, chocolate and toasted oak. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Pretty.” —WS 89-91

“Lots of blackberry, spice, tar and licorice. Full-bodied, thick and rich. This is very dense. Pure fruit. Best ever from here.” —WS 92-94

The PJ’s team was wowed by the 2005 Cantenac-Brown. This estate, under the direction of winemaker José Sanfins, has been steadily improving over the last few years and the 2005 is a breakaway achievement—setting the château in the top ranks of the Margaux appellation. The wine is full with rich, ripe, smokey raspberry and blackberry fruit scents and flavors. It is both harmonious and expansive on the palate with elegance, depth and a long, mint-laced finish. This is a superb effort. PJ 93

“Very big and juicy, with fabulous berry, chocolate and currant character. Full and round. Long. This could be the best Giscours of all time.” —WS 92-94, PJ 92+

“The most profound Lascombes produced under the new ownership, the 2005 is a 25,000-case blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot. It boasts an inky/blue/purple color in addition to an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, barbecue smoke, grilled meats, and sweet blackberries, cherries, and violets. With tremendous intensity, purity, freshness, definition, palate presence, and a moderately tannic finish (the tannin is sweet and well-integrated), this blockbuster is rich and concentrated yet maintains its Margaux typicity.” —WA 94-96

“Here we go again! This extraordinary wine is the greatest Kirwan made since some of the estate's historic offerings of the mid-1800s. An inky/black/purple color accompanies a gorgeous perfume of incense, creme de cassis, licorice, and subtle wood. It boasts thrilling levels of richness, full body, layers of concentration, high glycerin as well as tannin, and a fabulous 60-second finish. This compelling effort possesses 50 or more years of aging potential.” —WA 93-95+

“Even considering some of the great vintages produced under the late Alexis Lichine, this estate has never made a wine as impressive as their 2005. Consultant Stephane Derenoncourt is obviously realizing this vineyard's full potential. The deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by an open-knit, exotic bouquet of spice, incense, flowers, and sweet black cherries and blackberries. Rich and opulent, with ripe tannin, a savory, voluminous mouthfeel, and wonderful definition as well as elegance, this gorgeous wine is a tour de force for Prieure-Lichine.” —WA 91-94

“I know I sound like a broken record, but here is another estate that may have produced its finest wine ... ever. Rauzan Gassies rarely merits a 90-point or higher score, but their 2005 is a beautifully pure, structured, multi-textured cuvee boasting an inky/purple color as well as a sweet perfume of camphor, black currants, vitamins, and iron. This pure, rich, moderately tannic, long Margaux will be at its peak between 2009-2025.” —WA 90-93, PJ 91

“Beautiful aromas of blackberries, chocolate, coffee and currants. Full-bodied, with wonderfu ultrafine tannins and structure. Long, long finish. Seriously structured and rich. All in reserve right now, but you can feel the outstanding quality. 2000 in the remake. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.” —WS 95-100

“A terrific, fruit-forward Margaux offering wonderful smoky, melted licorice, chocolate, espresso, creme de cassis, and wild mountain berry notes, the 2005 Du Tertre possesses a dense purple color, medium to full body, superb purity, a sweet, expansive texture, and surprisingly silky, but lofty tannins. This brilliant wine should be at its best between 2008-2020.” —WA 91-94, PJ 91+

An outstanding showing by La Tour de By and another example of how well quality-oriented cru bourgeois producers did in 2005. It offers loads of black currant and plum fruit scents and flavors and is soft and elegant on the palate. This well-balanced wine features jammy black fruit tones harmonized by good acidity. The tannins are very fine and the finish is long. Impressive. —PJ 91

“Lovely berry, spice and cherry character. Full-bodied, with fine yet chewy tannins and a long finish. Structured and well-formed.” —WS 89-91, PJ 89+

The '05 Carruades is a marvelous effort with a level of quality that can compete with the first wine of most other estates. The PJ's team was very impressed. “Gorgeous aromas of blackberries, currants and spices. Full-bodied and focused, with fine, tight tannins and a chocolate, berry and licorice aftertaste. Serious second wine of Lafite. Could be as outstanding as the 2000.” —WS 89-91, PJ 92+

“Loads of violets, berries and currants with hints of mineral, light vanilla. Full-bodied, with very silky tannins and a long, long finish.” —WS 92-94, PJ 92

“Lots of blackberry and smoky character. Full-bodied, chewy and rich. Lots going on here. Powerful. Impressive.” —WS 92-94

“Following a period of mixed performances, Grand-Puy-Lacoste's 2005 is their finest effort since 2000 and 1996. It offers a deep ruby/purple color in addition to a beautiful, pure bouquet of creme de cassis, full body, moderately high tannin, and good precision, freshness, weight, and richness. Like many of the classified growths, it is a candidate to shut down after bottling.” —WA 92-94

“Blackberry and chocolate with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with silky tannins. Lovely wine.” —WS 89-91, PJ 91

“Fabulous aromas of currant, tobacco, mineral and cedar with licorice undertones. Muscular wine with firm yet velvety tannins. Full-bodied, with lots of fruit yet reserved and long. Wonderful balance yet plenty of strength. Extremely well-toned and long. 2000 again?” —WS 95-100, PJ 96

The PJ's team tasted this wine three times while in Bordeaux and the final sample knocked our socks off—convincing us this is one of the great vintages of Lynch-Bages. “Currant, blackberry, cherry and hints of licorice. Full-bodied, with silky and refined tannins and a fresh finish. This is racy and pretty. Very refined. Very structured.” —WS 92-94, PJ 95+

“The 2005 Mouton-Rothschild (a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc) tips the scales at 13.2% alcohol, one of the highest percentages ever achieved at this estate. It does not possess the power or awesome depth of the 1986 or 1982, but it may represent a modern-day clone of the 1955. A tannic, backward, concentrated, powerful Mouton built for the ages, it will require 10-15 years to reach its full potential. An inky/blue/purple color is accompanied by classic notes of creme de cassis and smoke, but no trace of new oak. That in itself is a good indication of how rich and concentrated this wine must be to have absorbed all its oak at this stage of its evolution. One might also term it 1996-like in style given its fresh acidity and bright personality. Medium to full-bodied, impeccably elegant, powerful yet subtle and reticent at present, it will be extremely long-lived.” —WA 94-96, PJ 94+

“Yield of 35 hectoliters per hectare and a final blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc have produced a black/purple-colored 2005 boasting gorgeous intensity as well as sweet, classic creme de cassis notes interwoven with incense, camphor, and graphite. Powerful and full-bodied with abundant glycerin, high tannin, endearing freshness and sweetness, and a long, 45-second finish...” —WA 92-95, PJ 94

“Love the aromas here of currants, licorice, exotic fruit, and berries. Complex. Full and silky, with gorgeous tannins. This is really long and reserved. Very close to 95-100. I will see in bottle.” —WS 92-94, PJ 94

Pontet-Canet has been steadily improving in recent years and the PJ's team finds the 2005 their best ever. “Glorious aromas of currants, blackberries and cherries with hints of vanilla and cedar. Full-bodied, with exuberant fruit. Velvety tannins. Soft and round mouthfeel. This is supercharged with fruit. Wonderful purity of Cabernet Sauvignon. Very low yields this year. Best ever from here?” —WS 95-100, PJ 96

“Another excellent vintage for Bordeaux's dry whites, which tend to be vastly underrated and exceptionally long-lived (30-40 years in some cases). The 2005s possess crisp acidity as well as serious weight, richness, and texture. Space constraints did not allow full tasting notes, but this is one of the top 2005 dry white Bordeaux wines.” —WA 92-94, PJ 91

This excellent value features ripe, red cherry fruit scents and flavors with smoky, chocolatey accents. The attack is silky with a juicymiddle, fine tannins and sweet cherry tones on the ample finish. Plenty of accessible flavor for the price. PJ 88+

“This is the finest Haut-Bailly I have ever tasted, although I suppose the 1900 or 1928 may have possessed similar qualities at the same age. Quintessentially elegant and rich, with surreal lightness and delicacy, it displays an inky/ruby color and beautiful aromas of sweet raspberries, black currants, flowers, graphite, and minerals. Medium-bodied and stunningly concentrated with moderately high but sweet tannin, this modern day legend represents a new reference point for this estate (now American-owned).” —WA 93-95+

“Unquestionably the finest wine Haut-Bergey has produced since 2000, this deep purple-colored beauty is a classic example of Pessac-Leognan's smoky, earthy style. Sweet red and black currant fruit, scorched earth, and a subtle burning ember/smoky character emerge from this ripe, full-bodied effort. With terrific fruit, good acidity, and high but ripe tannin, it should hit its peak in 3-5 years, and last for two decades. It is a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.” —WA 91-93

“The 2005 Haut-Brion is an extraordinarily broad, rich, full-bodied effort boasting huge aromas of scorched earth, plum sauce, sweet cherries, black currants, and a hint of toasty oak. The wine possesses huge tannins, which is somewhat deceptive given its viscosity and opulence. Despite its intensity, Haut-Brion is always a model of elegance and symmetry. The profound 2005, which will undoubtedly shut down after bottling, should be less seductive in its youth than either the 1989 or 1990, but it will be incredibly long-lived." —WA 96-100, PJ 95+

“This estate has been resurrected over the last decade under the inspired leadership of Belgian proprietor, Alexandre Bonnie. The incredibly elegant 2005 is a classic Graves offering wonderfully sweet aromas of berries, scorched earth, flowers, and spice. Elegant, vibrant, super-endowed, textured, rich, fresh, and lively, it should be approachable in 3-4 years, and last for 25 or more.” —WA 90-93

“Loads of crushed berries and flowers on the nose. Very sweet dark fruits. Full-bodied, with amazing concentration of fruit. Big, silky tannins. The depth of fruit is there. Dig down and find it. The richest La Mission ever.” —WS 95-100, PJ 93+

“Interesting ripe fruit and tobacco character with a hint of earth. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish.” —WS 89-91

“Lots of apple, mineral and lemon character with vanilla undertones. Full-bodied, with a bright acidity and a long finish. Serious. Well done.” —WS 92-94

“The greatest Pape-Clement ever produced? There is no question that proprietor Bernard Magrez, backed up by the eminent consulting winemaker, Michel Rolland, has produced a succession of brilliant wines over the last decade or more. The 2005, a potential legend, boasts a dense purple color along with a glorious, smoky bouquet displaying notions of graphite, plums, cassis, licorice, and subtle oak. Full-bodied with magnificent intensity, beautiful fresh acidity, tremendous definition, and a powerful, moderately tannic, super-concentrated finish, this beauty should come into its own by 2010, and last for three decades or more. It is a prodigious effort!" —WA 96-100, PJ 94+

“Lovely wine with crushed raspberry and blackberry galore. Full, thick and round. Gorgeous.” —WS 89-91

“I know it sounds like a broken record, but this may be the best Smith-Haut-Lafitte ever made. A prodigious effort, the 2005 boasts an inky/blue/purple color, sweet aromas of graphite, white chocolate, espresso, and blue, red, and black fruits, extraordinary density, moderately high tannin, medium body, fabulous layers, and an enticing texture. However, it comes across as delicate and fresh because of its acidity. This ageworthy Graves should last for 25-30+ years.” —WA 93-95+

“Bright and fruity with apple, lemon and tropical fruit character. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and the texture of a red wine. Goes on and on. Blockbuster. Fabulous. Brilliant and fresh. Long.” —WS 95-100

From highly committed producer Jean de Laitre and acclaimed consultant Stéphan Derenoncourt comes this excellent value offering. Le Thil Comte Clary is nestled between classified Pessac-Léognan estates Carbonnieux, Smith-Haut-Lafitte and Bouscaut. The work done since proprietor Jean de Laitre gave up his medical practice to dedicate his time to the château is evident in his 2005. It displays ample plum and berry notes with smoky, bacon tones and an underlaying layer of gravelly minerality. The attack is silky with a juicy mid-palate, bright acidity and a long finish. There is a lot of character for the price in this gem. —PJ 89+

“This estate has been on fire since 1997, and the 2005 is their finest effort since 2000, 2001, and 1998. A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc (from the oldest vines of Pomerol), it offers up fabulous aromas of truffles, black currants, vanilla, barbecue spices, and graphite. This well-endowed, full-bodied wine reveals an opulent, voluptuous texture, surprisingly good acidity, and high tannin. The 2005 vintage is unusual in that it is extremely concentrated and tannic yet vibrant and refreshing. This is another example of a potentially profound as well as long-lived wine.” —WA 94-96

“This is rich and powerful with seamless tannins and wonderful fruit. Full-bodied, with lots going on and a long, long finish. Gorgeous. Lots of fruit and toasted, smoky oak. This is very close to classic.” —WS 92-94, PJ 91+

“Intense blackberry, chocolate and floral aromas. Full-bodied, with amazing texture of soft tannins and ripe fruit. All in balance. So long. Goes on and on. Loving and tender. What a red. This reminds me of 1950, although I wasn't around to taste it from barrel! I am amazed.” —WS 95-100, PJ 95+

“Aromas of honey, dried apple and pear. Full-bodied, medium-sweet, with a solid core of fruit and honey character. Very impressive. Fresh. Juicy.” —WS 92-94

“Dried pineapples with honey and flowers. Full-bodied and medium-sweet, with fresh acidity and a spicy finish.” —WS 92-94

“Gorgeous aromas of dried pineapple and apricot follow through to a full-bodied palate, with sweet fruit and a long, long finish. Best ever from here?” —WS 92-94

“Loads of spicy honey and apple character. Full-bodied, medium-sweet, with a solid core of fruit and lots of botrytis character. Very racy. Not the 2001 but superb.” —WS 95-100

“Lots of spices, lemon rind and honey follow through to a thick, full-bodied palate. Long finish. Dense and sweet.” —WS 92-94

“Loads of spicy honey and apple character. Full-bodied, medium-sweet, with a solid core of fruit and lots of botrytis character. Very racy. Not the 2001 but superb.” —WS 95-100, PJ 92+

“Could this be the most profound Angelus yet made by the brilliant Hubert de Bouard since he turned this once under-achieving estate around in the mid-eighties? A blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the spectacular, inky/blue/purple-hued 2005 (7,080 cases; 14.5% natural alcohol) exhibits an extraordinary projected nose of blueberries, blackberries, liqueur of minerals, flowers, and subtle, toasty new oak. Magnificently concentrated, displaying a seamless integration of acidity, wood, tannin, and alcohol, a soaring mid-palate, and a finish that lasts over 60 seconds, this is a wine of compelling potential. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030+.” —WA 96-98

“The finest effort from this estate since their breakthrough 1998, the 2005 (80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc) exhibits sweet, crunchy black raspberry and cherry fruit interwoven with hints of smoke, herbs, and toasty oak. It is a structured yet powerful, rich, pure, exceptionally ageworthy Barde-Haut that should hit its peak in 4-5 years, and evolve over the following two decades.” —WA 90-93

“While there was some variation with this wine on the three separate occasions I tasted it, it is unquestionably a spectacular effort as well as one of the finest Beau Sejour-Becots made by proprietor Gerard Becot. The natural alcohol came in just under 15%, and the blend of 70% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon was cropped at 35 hectoliters per hectare. Despite the wine's massiveness, intensity, and powerful, full-bodied flavors that coat the palate, there is remarkable freshness, definition, and lightness because of the vintage's unusual combination of huge richness, incredible tannin levels, record breaking alcohol levels, and very good acids. This should turn out to be a profound St.-Emilion and may merit a score in the mid-nineties if everything goes as well as I suspect it should.” —WA 92-95, PJ 91

“This is very concentrated on the nose, with blackberry and violets. Full-bodied, with masses of tannins and bright fruit. It goes on and on and on. Exceptional.” —WS 95-100, PJ 93+

A breakaway edition of Cap de Mourlin. It offers pure, creamy aromas of raspberries and blackberries. On the palate the berry flavors are concentrated and well integrated with a clean line of acidity. White pepper, sweet vanilla and meaty nuances add to the long, fresh finish. A high-quality, affordable St. Emilion. PJ 91+

“Crushed black fruits with strawberry and flowers. Full-bodied, with lovely silky tannins and lots of wonderful fruit. Lots of concentration and excitement. Almost classic quality.” —WS 92-94, PJ 93

“Under the guidance of its new owner, Monsieur Cuvelier, Clos Fourtet has enjoyed a dramatic renaissance. I did not think the estate could eclipse its other-worldly 2003, but the remarkable 2005 may do just that. A blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is given a Burgundian-styled malolactic in barrel, and is aged 5 months on its lees with batonnage. There are 6,000 cases of the 2005, which achieved 14% natural alcohol. The striking thing about Clos Fourtet is that one can see its fabulous terroir along with great purity, and stunning nobility and complexity. Its inky/purple color is accompanied by beautiful notes of blueberries, blackberries, plums, and flowers. This full-bodied wine cascades over the palate with huge concentration, high tannin, and freshness as well as sweetness. This brilliant effort should be at its peak between 2012-2030.” —WA 94-96

“After Destieux's brilliant 2003, I thought proprietor Christian Dauriac may have hit the highest peak possible at this old vineyard (average age 45 years). However, the blockbuster 2005 may well eclipse the 2003. Consultant Michel Rolland's final blend consists of 66% Merlot, and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. A flamboyant, muscular, seriously concentrated wine of great intensity, it possesses a dense black/purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of smoke, truffles, blackberries, earth, new saddle leather, and grilled meat juices. The wine is amazingly dense, rich, and powerful yet also elegant and fresh.” —WA 92-94

“Made from yields of 27 hectoliters per hectare, the 2005 Faugere's dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by sweet blueberry, raspberry, and cherry fruit interwoven with pain grille and spice box notes. It is a powerful, full-bodied yet elegant wine with good acidity as well as beautiful purity.” —WA 91-93

“The best Figeac since the 2000 and 1990, this dense plum/ruby/purple-tinged 2005 offers up sweet aromas of creosote, incense, fruitcake, black cherries, and cassis. With soft but noticeable tannin this impeccably elegant, medium-bodied, authoritatively-flavored, pure, long wine will be drinkable between 2009-2020.” —WA 91-94, PJ 93

“This estate has come on strong under the auspices of visionary proprietor Bernard Magrez and winemaking consultant Michel Rolland, and it has been one of this journal's great value picks over the last 7-8 vintages. In 2005, the harvest took place between September 22nd and October 6th, and the final blend consisted of 77% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon. Its dense purple color is accompanied by a sumptuous bouquet of white chocolate, graphite, black cherry jam, and currants. Medium to full-bodied with moderate tannin, more structure than usual, loads of glycerin, and a persistent mouthfeel...” —WA 90-92, PJ 90

“The best Grand-Mayne since the blockbuster 1998, the inky/ruby/purple-colored 2005 reveals hints of blueberries, pain grille, crushed rocks, and white flowers. Boasting superb intensity, purity, body, and unctuosity along with an endearing freshness and vibrancy that provide definition and uplift, it will be drinkable upon release, and evolve for 15-20 years.” —WA 91-93

“The most profound wine made at this great terroir since the 1945, 2005 is the wine fans of this estate have been waiting for for decades. The brilliant partnership of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt, which began managing Larcis Ducasse in 2002, has hit a home run, producing a prodigious St.-Emilion of legendary proportions. This blend of 78% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon receives malolactic in barrel and aging on its lees for 7-10 months. Displaying the type of complexity that can only come from the finest vineyards, it boasts a big, spicy, cedar, grilled herb, pot roast, sweet currant, kirsch liqueur, plum, and blackberry-scented bouquet. The wine is full-bodied and velvety-textured, with superb definition, freshness, and intensity as well as a sense of lightness. This immortal effort is one of the monuments of the vintage.” —WA 95-98

“This muscular, powerful sleeper of the vintage exhibits aromas of sweet black cherries interwoven with notions of vanilla and herbs. Medium to full-bodied, moderately tannic, pure, and long, it should drink well for 12-15 years.” —WA 88-90+

“There are 7,000 cases of this 60% Merlot/30% Cabernet Franc/10% Cabernet Sauvignon blend from the home estate of Chantal and Gerard Perse. Although this is not considered to be one of St.-Emilion's finest terroirs, everything is done in an artisinal manner - including hand harvesting, hand sorting, a draconian selection in both the vineyard and the cellars, and Burgundy-like treatments of malolactic in barrel and aging sur-lie. Monbousquet has been a stunning success ever since Perse took over the property. Earlier vintages continue to suggest that this cuvee has far greater longevity than expected given the opulence and enormous fruit. For example, the 1998 and 1999 remain infants in terms of development, and the 1995 is just coming into a pre-adolescent stage. The 2005 (13.5% alcohol) possesses a saturated blue/purple color as well as a big, sweet nose of pain grille, roasted herbs, grilled meats, black cherry jam, blackberries, and spice. Powerful, full-bodied, and dense yet elegant, deep, and layered, its pure fruit, concentration, and overall quality hide the moderately high tannin.” —WA 92-94 PJ 92

This is a PJ's favorite that has been on the rise since its debut in 1998 and their 2005 is their best yet. The nose is complex and features plush cherry and mixed berry aromas with enticing chalky mineral, cedar, sweet tobacco and spice notes. The palate is rich and polished, offering cherry and spicy plum flavors and good freshness. All the elements are in spot-on balance, making this well-crafted effort a serious St. Emilion at a bargain price. PJ 91

“Aromas of licorice and blackberry. Violets. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and lots of berry and cherry character. A blockbuster. Is it better than 2003? We will see. This is monumental.” —WS 95-100, PJ 94+

“Proprietor Alain Raynaud has produced a beautifully elegant, noble, racy 2005 Quinault l'Enclos that ranks alongside his 1998, 2000, and 2001. A blend of 77% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon (the average age of the vines is 50 years), it was cropped at 32 hectoliters per hectare, and receives the Burgundian treatment of malolactic in barrel, aging on its lees for 6-10 months, and no filtering at bottling. The inky/blue/purple-tinged 2005 reveals a pure nose of charcoal, spring flowers, sweet raspberries, black cherries, and cassis. The wine is gorgeously textured, medium-bodied, and elegant yet intensely flavored with a power and texture that build on the palate. The tannin is sweet, but noticeable, and the finish is long.” —WA 92-95

A blockbuster, extraordinarily profound effort from proprietor Christine Valette, the 2005 Troplong Mondot is the finest wine she has made since the other-worldly 1990. It dense black color is followed by a stupendous bouquet of blueberries, blackberries, truffles, graphite, and smoke. It cascades over the palate with exquisite density, purity, full-bodied power, and remarkable freshness as well as delineation. This magical wine somehow manages to harness extraordinary power and structure with a sense of delicacy and finesse.” —WA 96-100

“Astounding. Intense aromas of crushed berries, violets and toasted oak. Full-bodied and wonderfully concentrated. Long and velvety. Out of the garage. Serious. Could be best ever here.” —WS 95-100

“This is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon (as ripe and impressive as Madame Gasqueton has ever seen) and 40% Merlot. The Merlot was harvested between September 15-22 and the Cabernet Sauvignon was brought in during the first two weeks of October. The result is a classic Calon-Segur exhibiting a dense purple color, ripe black cherry, cassis, smoke, earth, and new oak characteristics, powerful but sweet tannin, a huge texture, and broad, concentrated flavors.” —WA 93-96+, PJ 93+

“The 2005 Cos d'Estournel is made from an unusual blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. The Merlot was picked during the last nine days of September, and the Cabernets were finished by the 9th of October. The 2005's 13.85% alcohol is the highest this estate has ever achieved. The implementation of such Burgundian winemaking techniques as malolactic in barrel and aging on its lees are resulting in wines of extraordinary texture as well as elegance. The 2003 may be more opulent, and for my taste a more compelling wine, but the 2005 is at the same level. Made from yields of 40 hectoliters per hectare, it exhibits an inky/purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of sweet red and black fruits, camphor, cedar, and pain grille. Extraordinarily well-defined, nuanced, and powerful, with high tannin as well as magnificent texture and richness, this classic offering will be uncommonly long-lived. It will not be close to drinkability for another 5-7 years, and should last for 30 or more. A fabulous wine!” —WA 95-97, PJ 95

2005 is a great year for La Dame de Montrose, 2nd wine of Château Montrose, and it is not far short of the outstanding first wine. The PJ's team was truly wow'd by the effort, which is quite a bargain considering the quaility. "Round and fruity, with lots of berry and mineral character. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Pretty.” —WS 89-91, PJ 92+

“(a blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon, 31% merlot, 3.5% cabernet franc and 0.5% petit verdot) Good full ruby-red. Brooding aromas of blueberry, black raspberry, licorice, bitter chocolate and violet. Juicy, gripping and tightly wound, with its very firm structure currently hiding its mid-palate flesh. But very subtle and long, with captivating floral and mineral notes on the finish. This was positively explosive as it opened in the glass, showing increasing texture and sweetness.” —IWC 92-95, PJ 94+

Yet another St. Estèphe making a great showing in 2005. Loaded with creamy cherry, currant and raspberry tones, this wine is both ripe and fresh with outstanding mineral complexity and very good structure. We think it has reached the next level in 2005. "Lovely spice berry and currant aromas. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a silky, fruity finish. Very balanced. Almost 89-91.” —WS 85-88, PJ 90+

“Blackberry and currants follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a fresh, fruity aftertaste.” —WS 89-91

This is an excellent example of a less well-known producer from a top appellation really shining in a top vintage. It offers plenty of sweet red and black cherry scents and flavors. Rich cherry kirsh and raspberry nuances come to the fore on the palate. The middle is well-mannered and leads into an elegant, filigreed finish. Mint and cedar notes linger handsomely on this deep, but accessible, bargain St. Estèphe. PJ 91

“Very pretty aromas of spices such as cardamom and cloves with lots of fruit underneath. Full-bodied and gushing with fruit, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Nicely done for this producer.” —WS 89-91

“Branaire, which has been ratcheting up the quality level over the last 5-6 years, made such a great 2003, I am hesitant to suggest the 2005 is as good, or even better. It will undoubtedly come down to consumer's personal preference, with the 2003 more exotic and flamboyant, and the 2005 more structured or "classic." In any event, the 2005 is one of the top Branaires ever made. Its inky/ruby/purple color is followed by sweet aromas of spring flowers interwoven with black cherries, cranberries, cassis, plums, and hints of forest floor, wet rocks, and new oak. With wonderful purity, full body, terrific fruit intensity, a beautiful, expansive texture, and a stunning 45-50-second finish, it should be at its peak between 2011-2030.” —WA 94-96

“This is very solid, with currants, minerals and berries on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Lots of licorice and cassis. Tight. Always excellent in top vintages.” —WS 92-94

“Focused aromas of currants, berries and spices follow through to a full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a long, balanced finish. Excellent second wine.” —WS 89-91, PJ 91

“Intense exotic aromas of crushed blackberries, lilacs and hints of vanilla. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and big, silky tannins. This is extremely layered, with a polished caressing texture. Long, long finish. Builds on the palate. Will it be better than 2003? Time will tell.” —WS 95-100, PJ 94

“This shows a lovely silky texture and ripe fruit ranging from plums to chocolate to toasted oak. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Juicy young red. Very close to 92-94.” —WS 89-91, PJ 89+

“Deep ruby. Fresh aromas of blackberry, kirsch, cedar and leather. Intensely flavored and powerful, with very fresh, precise flavors of dark berries, cigar box, violet, licorice, espresso and bitter chocolate. Offers an enticing combination of ripeness and acidity, of power and elegance. Juicy, primary, penetrating wine, not as pliant as some. Finishes with sweet, nicely enrobed tannins. A very good showing.” —IWC 90-93, PJ 95

“Once again the provocative words ‘the best ever made’ appear in my tasting notes. In twenty-eight years, I have never tasted a Lagrange as amazing as this 2005. Its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by pure notes of creme de cassis, cedar, spice box, and a hint of cherries. Full-bodied, powerful, and opulent, with high tannin as well as extract in addition to great freshness, definition, and length, this long-lived beauty should be at its finest between 2012-2030.” —WA 92-94, PJ 92

“Fantastic aromas of currants, black licorice and berries. Fresh flowers. Light smoke. Big and velvety with loads of fruit. Long. Gorgeous. Sexy. Love it. Seems like another 2003; wait and see.” —WS 95-100

“(88% cabernet sauvignon, 7% merlot and 5% cabernet franc; 13.1% alcohol; 65% new oak) Good full ruby. Brooding, primary, cabernet-dominated aromas of cassis, currant, bitter chocolate and minerals. Dense and opulent in the mouth, with the vibrant black fruit flavors lifted by a violet quality. Still a bit youthfully austere, but wonderfully consistent and energetic from start to finish. Quite explosive on the end, finishing with big but noble tannins and palate-saturating fruits and minerals. Jean-Hubert Delon felt that adding any more merlot or cabernet franc could only have diluted the great cabernet sauvignon of 2005. This will need at least a decade of cellaring and should go on for decades.” —IWC 93-95, PJ 95

“Flowery creme de cassis aromas interwoven with hints of blackberries, licorice, and pain grille jump from the glass of this opaque purple-colored St.-Julien. Possessing medium to full body, sweet tannin, an expansive, multilayered mid-palate, good acidity and freshness, and a blockbuster finish, this powerful, impressively endowed effort will require patience.” —WA 92-94, PJ 93

“Aromas of blackberries, tar and licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a fruity, ripe aftertaste. Balanced and attractive.” —WS 89-91

The PJ's team was impressed with this elegant and especially well-endowed edition of Sarget de Gruaud Larose, the second wine of Gruaud Larose. It features full plum and current notes backed by smokey tobacco and clearly delineated mineral notes. On the palate the attack is deep and rich with creamy tones balanced by great freshness on the mid-palate. Green olive nuances add complexity to this graceful and very long wine. Old style elegance and depth at this price is very hard to find. PJ 91

“Very rich and ripe on the nose, with currants, light raisins and violets. Full-bodied, with big, juicy tannins and a long finish. Almost 95-100. The best Talbot in years.” —WS 92-94