GREAT THANKSGIVING PICKS

KIM CRAWFORD  2007 $ 13.99 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 91 Concentrated and very intense, weaving together a harmonious medley of crushed stone, grapefruit and nut flavors. Savory herbs, grass and lime notes highlight the bright, vibrant finish. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
ARGYLE NUTHOUSE  2005 $ 49.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 94 The aroma of this wine foretells of density and richness. Densely spiced blackberry and black cherry fruit aromas present anticipation of a great mouthful of late picked, yet ripe Pinot Noir fruit. The flavor delivers incredible creaminess and juiciness of mouth-feel, wrapped up by black fruit, rocky, and forest floor complexities. The finish is a signature balance of fruit/spice/juicy persistence. The 2005 Pinot Noir Nuthouse is one of the major successes of a challenging vintage. It has a slightly aged appearance and is exhibiting an alluring perfume of spice, red fruits, and blueberry. On the mid-palate it has a wide band of fruit atypical for 2005. It has the structure of the vintage so it may well evolve for 4-5 years and drink well through 2020. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW
LA BETE MEREDITH MITCHELL VINEYARD  2006 $ 19.99 The 2006 La Bete Pinot Noir is the biggest and deepest of the current releases, but is by no means large in scale. Fruit driven, with savory and spice elements, it is precocious and moderately complex. The wine has excellent balance, moderate body and is well-structured. Not yet at its peak, it should be held for at least a year, but can be paired with lamb now.
FINCA VILLACRECES  2004 $ 29.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 95 The 2004 Tinto is 86% Tempranillo, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Merlot fermented in barrel and aged in French oak for 16 months. Inky purple, it has an expressive bouquet of mocha/espresso, pain grille, graphite, wild blueberrys, and blackberry liqueur. This is followed by a full-bodied, full-flavored, plush wine with layers of spicy black fruits, impeccable balance, and a long, pure finish. The tannins are well concealed but this superb effort should evolve for 4-6 years and drink well through 2027. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW
COLUMBIA CREST RESERVE  2004 $ 24.99 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 92 The intense fruit in this Cabernet Sauvignon does not deter from the aromatics of chocolate cherry and slight mint, which precede a palate of cocoa and black cherry flavors. This is an elegant, complex wine that culminates in the perfect balance of wood and fruit on the lingering finish. Smooth and velvety, with pure, focused currant and plum fruit floating over superfine tannins, subtlety shaded with hints of cream and spice. A touch of green olive sneaks in on the long finish. Best from 2009 through 2014. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
BOGLE  2006 $ 11.99 The cool confines of the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County provide a near perfect climate for the development of delicate Pinot Noir aromatics and flavors. Cloaked in morning fog with warm sunshine through the later day, these valley floor vineyards grow tiny, perfect clusters of deeply colored fruit. Bright violet and cherry impressions are followed by subtle cocoa and toasty oak notes. The finish shows structure with finesse and aromas of earth and pomegranate.
NEYERS  2007 $ 26.99 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 93 Grapes from the Carneros district vineyards that went into this wine were harvested with higher than normal natural acidity, and the subsequent malo-lactic fermentation was especially vigorous. The result is a Chardonnay with a creamy texture and an attractive element of toast, or grilled bread, in the aroma. Most importantly, winemaker Tadeo Borchardt's efforts have given us a wine of great balance. The separate components are harmoniously joined together with no single characteristic dominating the final blend. The wine is flavorful without being awkward and satisfying without being extreme. Complex aromas of smoke, fig and citrus fold over to the palate. Full-bodied, with fine structure and acidity, along with flavors that end up giving this a delicate feel. The aftertaste is delicious. Drink now through 2012. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS!!

VEUVE CLIQUOT YELLOW LABEL $ 38.99 First, Brut Yellow Label looks beautiful: golden-yellow, with a foaming necklace of tiny bubbles. Next it is so pleasing to the nose: initially reminiscent of white fruits and raisins, then of vanilla and later of brioche. Note the fine balance between the fruity aromas coming from the grape varieties and the toasty aromas following the ageing in the bottle. The first sip delivers all the freshness and forcefulness so typical of Yellow Label with asymphony of fruit tastes following on. Here is a true member of the powerful Brut family, well structured, admirably vinous. The lingering aromas echo and re-echo, with each fruit or spice note distinct.
CAKEBREAD  2006 $ 59.99 Our 2006 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is decidedly masculine in style with ripe, dense aromas of earthy blackcurrant, black plum and spicy brambleberry fruit mingled with pronounced dark chocolate and roast coffee scents. On the palate, the wine is big, rich and concentrated with intense, spicy black fruit and dark chocolate flavors bolstered by ripe, mouth-coating tannins. Delicious now with hearty fare, this big, strapping Pinot Noir will soften and gain further complexity with another 3 to 5 years of bottle age.
RAMEY HYDE VINEYARD  2005 $ 54.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 95 The Wente produces a classic, Burgundian-style wine, without the tropical fruit tones of some California Chardonnays. The Long Vineyards selection adds a floral note, and the Hyde Vineyard wines often seem charming and feminine. High natural acidity plays a prominent role. A stunning effort, the 2005 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard boasts great intensity along with huge tropical fruit notes interwoven with notions of spring flowers, orange marmalade, white peaches, and steely minerals. Its abundant fruit conceals any evidence of wood. Well-delineated, with outstanding acidity as well as a layered, sumptuous finish, it should age nicely for 4-5 years, possibly longer. One of Northern California’s most successful winemakers/consultants, David Ramey’s personal winery continues to go from strength to strength. Ramey has had the best of both worlds, working in Bordeaux for the Moueix family, and in California at Dominus, Chalk Hill, and Rudd Estate. Ramey has two hierarchies of Chardonnays, his generic appellations as well as his single vineyard cuvees. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW
OPUS ONE (ROBERT MONDAVI)  2005 $ 179.99 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 90 A tightly knit youngster, with hints of earthy cedar, tar and tobacco which join ripe currant, red cherry, anise, leather, sage and spice, ending with a strong, structured tannic finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Best from 2010 through 2016. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
NICKEL & NICKEL (FAR NIENTE) VOGT VINEYARD HOWELL MTN.  2005 $ 89.99 The 2005 Vogt Cabernet Sauvignon is an incredible wine. The aromas of jammy fruit and floral notes are dark and intense. The palate offers sweet, rich flavors of blackberry and cassis mixed with floral and spice. Incredibly concentrated, this wine is powerful, yet soft, with firm, polished tannins.
NICKEL & NICKEL (FAR NIENTE) C.C. RANCH RUTHERFORD  2005 $ 89.99 The 2005 C.C. Ranch has a unique combination of floral and fruit. The plush black cherry flavors offer a nice sweetness to this wine, enhanced by the floral characteristics that naturally come from the vineyard. The distinctive “Rutherford Dust,” combined with the spice and toast from the oak, deepens the wine’s flavor and complexity. Smooth and rich, this wine expands on the middle palate, and the soft tannins that are associated with the Rutherford appellation melt away into a long, harmonious finish.
DOM PERIGNON (MOET & CHANDON )  1999 $ 129.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 96 STEVE TANZER (IWC) RATING: 93 The unique personality of Dom Pérignon is born of this creative commitment. There is always an unexpected, paradoxical tension between the distinctive qualities of a year and the timeless spirit of Dom Pérignon, a sensation that gives the champagne charisma, imparting weightlessness, airy richness and suppleness from the first impression to the long-lasting finish. The profound emotion of Dom Pérignon lies precisely in the tension sustained by a brand whose name is intimately associated with the birth of champagne more than 300 years ago, a brand which, over time, has become an unrivalled icon of luxury. Robert Parker in the Hedonist's Gazette: "I was fortunate to have the newly released 1999 Dom Pérignon, which is a spectacular Champagne. Based on one bottle, I would not rate it as highly as the 1996 or 1990, but it is much better than the 1998, and appears to have more body and richness than the 1995, also a top-notch vintage. The 1999 should have at least 20 years of life ahead of it." -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Green-tinted gold. Tightly wound lime and pink grapefruit aromas open slowly to reveal a gently smoky mineral and floral character, with a light kiss of green cardamom adding interest. Very fresh on the palate, with youthful citrus and green apple flavors giving way to slightly riper blood orange and pear. Finishes firm and dry, with serious grip. This only hints at its potential, and I'd advise anyone drinking it for what's in the bottle rather than on the label to stash it away for at least another five years, minimum. -STEVE TANZER (IWC) REVIEW
CARTER VINEYARDS HILLBLOCK  2006 (MADE BY LEGENDARY WINE MAKER KEN WRIGHT) $ 39.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 93 The 2006 Pinot Noir Hillblock was made by Ken Wright from a vineyard planted in 1983. Wright also makes a Carter Vineyard designate under his own label which I found to be equally uplifting. The Hillblock was aged in 70% new French oak and bottled without fining or filtration. Cherry red in color, it has a superb perfume of pain grille, spice box, red and black cherry and black raspberry. This is followed by a layered, velvety-textured, succulent wine with great depth, concentration and structure for this vintage. It will evolve for 2-3 years and offer prime drinking from 2010 to 2018. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW

DRINK THEM NOW!!

CHATEAU MONTELENA CALISTOGA CUVEE  1999 $ 44.99 The styling is an open and supple front and middle with a true Cabernet framework, which will allow, but does not demand aging. The nose is very complex blackberry jam, very typical of a low crop year, with a hint of coffee. Also present are the Cabernet Sauvignon notes of tobacco, some spice from our volcanic soils, and hints of smoke from the barrel aging in our tunnels.The palate is classically Cabernet-Merlot, soft and round, with a warm, spicy berry flavor - like the tasty goo in a warm berry pie! The texture is very, very supple and drinkable but it has the backbone to lay down in your cellar, too. The sweet nose of black cherries and currants is followed by a medium-bodied red displaying notions of earth, licorice, tobacco, and spice. It is a supple-textured, delicious Cabernet to enjoy over the next 10-12 years. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW
JOSEPH PHELPS  1997 (THIS WINE IS READY TO DRINK!!!) $ 69.99 STEVE TANZER (IWC) RATING: 90 WINE ENTHUSIAST RATING: 90 Deep ruby-red. High-pitched aromas of blackberry, cassis and enticing smoky oak. Smooth on the palate but with very good delineation and verve. This comes across as fruitier than the merlot. Juicy but not especially fleshy. Ripe, dusty tannins spread out nicely over the palate. -STEVE TANZER (IWC) REVIEW Full black-currant aromas with some briar and dust. Blackberry fruit on the palate, but most of all lots of charred oak manifested as coffee and bitter chocolate. In golf, this would be a middle-of-the fairway drive, but without the distance. It’s fresh and well made. -WINE ENTHUSIAST REVIEW

BORDEAUX 2005!

Retasting all the 2005s a few months before they are bottled confirmed just about everything the pundits had declared last year. It is an extraordinary vintage and one that is different from anything I have tasted in the last twenty-eight years. As a general rule, the wines are very concentrated, extremely high in tannin, and backward, but the fresh acids combined with the massive concentration and higher than normal alcohols make for a distinctive vintage that will probably be one of the longest-lived I have ever tasted. "ROBERT PARKER" THE WINE ADVOCATE.

CH MOUTON ROTHSCHILD  2005 $ 699.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 96 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 95 The 2005 Mouton Rothschild will have to take a back seat to the prodigious 2006, but administrator Philippe Dalhuin deserves considerable credit for pushing Mouton to higher quality levels over recent years. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest mostly Merlot, the dark purple-hued 2005 exhibits a restrained but promising nose of cedar, tobacco leaf, creme de cassis, and toasty oak. Full-bodied, tannic, and extremely backward, with the vintage’s tell-tale acidity, it appears to be even more closed in the bottle than it was from barrel. It does possess a long finish and multilayered mouthfeel. This is an undeniably outstanding, yet restrained, shy wine for a Mouton Rothschild. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Dark purple black in color. Complex aromas of mineral, licorice, lead pencil and blackberry follow through to a full body, with ultrafine tannins and a caressing, pretty finish. Has a lovely texture. Shows elegance and refinement. Best after 2012. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH PALMER  2005 $ 349.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 97 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 95 This spectacular offering should continue to improve, and may merit an even higher score after additional aging. Stunningly rich and powerful, the dark purple-tinged 2005 Palmer is a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 7% Petit Verdot. Aromas of incense, burning embers, black currants, plums, licorice, and flowers are followed by a full-bodied Margaux with more weight and power even than its nearby first-growth rival, Chateau Margaux. The abundant acidity and tannins are beautifully coated by the wine’s exceptional fruit extract and overall harmony and richness. It is so concentrated that one is hard pressed to find even a hint of new oak. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2045+. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Dark in color, with intense aromas of crushed berry, toasty oak and hints of raisin, turning to fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with a big, juicy, velvety texture and a long aftertaste of coffee, coconut and berry. This is powerful and muscular for Palmer. Best after 2012. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH HAUT BRION  2005 $1099.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 98 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 100 Another profound effort from Haut-Brion, the 2005 (a 9,000-case blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc) has bulked up to the point that it is fair to compare it to the great successes of 1989, 1990, 1995, 1996, 1998, and 2000. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by a nuanced, noble bouquet of blue and red fruits interwoven with wet stones, unsmoked cigar tobacco, scorched earth, and spring flowers. The wine is full-bodied, pure, and complex as well as exceptionally elegant with laser-like precision. The tannins are still serious and substantial, and in that sense, this is a completely different style of Haut-Brion than the opulent, silky-textured 1989 and 1990. As I have written before, it comes across as an improved, more concentrated and structured version of the 1995 or 1998. Patience will be required for this stunner. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2040+ -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW This is incredible on the nose, showing coffee cake, blackberry, floral, coffee bean and vanilla bean, with Chinese spices. A very complex, full-bodied red, with seamless, hyperpolished tannins that caress every millimeter of the palate. Lasts for minutes. So beautifully balanced, I'm left speechless. Is it even better than the 1989? Best after 2017. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH DESTIEUX  2005 $ 59.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 93 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 92 Proprietor Christian Dauriac has hit a home run with his 2005 Destieux. The tremendous effort he has been putting into this property over the last decade has been rewarded with a well-deserved upgrade in the recent Classification of St.-Emilion. A blend of 66% Merlot and the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon (from 45-year old vines), the nearly black-colored 2005 reveals aromas of roasted meats, sweet blackberry and cassis fruit, licorice, tar, smoke, and incense. A modern day blockbuster with superb purity, density, concentration, and length, it should round into drinkable form with another 5-8 years of bottle age, and last for 2-3 decades. It is good to see the only flaw in older vintages, the rusticity of the tannins, completely tamed. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Very pretty mineral, blackberry and light vanilla aromas follow through to a full body, with supervelvety tannins and a long aftertaste of ripe fruit and cream. Best after 2013. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
LA TOUR CARNET  2005 $ 44.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 91 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 90 Shrewd consumers should be stocking up on this wine as it is both sensational and realistically priced. Once one of the most appallingly mediocre classified growths of the Medoc, this estate’s resurrection started around 2000, hitting its full stride in 2001, and proprietor Bernard Magrez continues to build on that success. A blend of nearly equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the inky/blue/purple 2005 possesses a beautiful nose of graphite, flowers, creme de cassis, incense, and a touch of new barriques. Full-bodied with crisp acidity, sweet tannin, and excellent definition and freshness, this sensational sleeper of the vintage should be at its finest in 8-10 years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW A pretty wine, with vanilla, currant and berry on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with toasty oak and currant notes and ripe, polished tannins. Best after 2013. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH SAINT-PIERRE  2005 $ 64.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 93 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 93 Smart consumers should be checking out this estate whose wines have been superb over recent vintages. Under the same ownership as Gloria, it is a classic St.-Julien with sensational concentration and intensity, but more powerful, thick, and muscular than wines such as Ducru Beaucaillou or Beychevelle. The 2005 possesses the vintage’s structured, tannic mouthfeel as well as enormous concentration and massive extract. It exhibits plenty of earthy creme de cassis intermixed with notes of forest floor, licorice, and roasted meats. Backward with huge tannin, full body, and the potential for 3-4 decades of aging, this superb St.-Julien will get even better over the next 10-15 years. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW 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. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH COS DESTOURNEL  2005 (WINE SPECTATOR TOP 100 #28) $ 239.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 98 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 98 While I am not convinced the 2005 Cos d’Estournel will eclipse the compelling 2003 Cos, it is unquestionably another superb classic from proprietor Michel Reybier and his brilliant winemaker, Jean-Guillaume Prats. Made from an unusually high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (78%) and the balance mostly Merlot with a tiny dollop of Cabernet Franc, this superb effort requires plenty of time in the bottle. It boasts an inky/purple color as well as a glorious perfume of licorice, Asian spices, creme de cassis, blackberries, and toasty oak. This full-bodied St.-Estephe is exceptionally powerful, pure, and dense with a layered mid-palate that builds like a skyscraper. While there are massive tannins, they are remarkably velvety and well-integrated in this big, backstrapping effort that should enjoy an unusually long life. Forget it for 8-10 years, and drink it between 2017-2040. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Black in color, with aromas of orange peel, new leather, currant, berry and Christmas pudding. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and a long, long finish of fruit and spices. The cashmere texture is all there. 2003 plus 2000 equals 2005. Best after 2015. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH GRAND-PUY-LACOSTE  2005 $ 94.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 95 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 93 The brilliant 2005 Grand-Puy-Lacoste exhibits classic Pauillac aromas and flavors of creme de cassis along with stony/floral notes. Proprietor Xavier Borie has created a wine that should rival the brilliant 1982, 1990, 1996, and 2000. Full-bodied with sweet tannin and superb length (a 40+ second finish), the purity of this beauty’s black currant fruit is something to behold. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2030. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Has subtle blackberry, licorice and currant on the nose, with hints of mint. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a very pretty texture. Caresses everything. Refined and balanced. A beautiful wine that's hard to keep your hands off now. Best after 2012. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH MARGAUX  2005 $1149.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 98 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 100 Another celestial effort from Paul Pontallier and Corinne Mentzelopoulus, the 2005 Margaux, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, boasts a dense opaque blue/purple color as well as an extraordinary bouquet of spring flowers, blueberries, black raspberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and, despite its having spent two years in 100% new wood, only a subtle touch of toasty oak. Although full-bodied, the wine seems light on its feet because of the silky tannins as well as the great gravel terroir from which it comes. Beautiful purity, length, and nobility define this modern day classic. Is it better than the 2000, 1996, 1990, or some of the vintages from the decade of the eighties? Who knows, but it is unquestionably one of the all-time great wines made at Chateau Margaux. This estate has produced only exceptional wines over the last three decades. The seamlessness of the 2005 suggests it will perform well early, but it should last for a half century or more. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2050+. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Black in color, delivering extraordinary aromas of blackberry, raisin, spices and fresh mushroom. Full-bodied, with an amazing core of ripe fruit, yet ultrabalanced and finely textured. Touches every taste bud. This incredible young red spent two years in new wood, but you can't tell. It's all glorious fruit. A legendary wine. Best after 2017. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH PICHON BARON  2005 $ 149.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 94 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 94 As usual, this superb Pauillac possesses an inky/blue/black color in addition to a big, sweet nose of graphite, charcoal, burning embers, black currant liqueur, and toasty vanillin from new oak casks. Full-bodied with high but sweet, well-integrated tannins, the 2005 Pichon Baron is more backward than the blockbuster 2003 or prodigious 2000. Nevertheless, it is a superb effort whose power, length, and tannic structure suggest it should be at its peak between 2015-2035. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW 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. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH DUCRU-BEAUCAILLOU  2005 $ 229.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 97 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 95 The 2005 Ducru Beaucaillou is a 10,000-case blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Merlot (they used to produce 18,000-20,000 cases). It is an exceptionally powerful wine with a dense purple color, superb intensity, and a beautiful, sweet nose of spring flowers, raspberries, blueberries, graphite, and creme de cassis. Full-bodied with fabulous concentration, exceptionally high tannin, good acidity, and massive layers of richness that build incrementally on the palate, this monumental effort is more structured than their outstanding 2003. It may be the finest wine produced at this estate since the 1982 and 1961 Ducrus. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2050. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Aromas of blackberry, currant and toasty oak, with a hint of spice, lead to a full-bodied palate, with plenty of blackberry, chocolate and Indian spices. Balanced, refined and very pretty, with a velvety texture and a long, beautifully textured finish. Best after 2013. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH GISCOURS  2005 (WINE SPECTATOR TOP 100 #94) $ 72.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 91 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 93 This forward-styled 2005 possesses a dense ruby/purple color in addition to a big, sweet bouquet of roasted herbs, fudge, espresso, figs, and cherry jam. Opulent, even decadent, with low acidity, but high glycerin and fruit extract as well as a flamboyant fleshiness, this is a stunningly impressive, hedonistic, savory Margaux to enjoy between 2010-2025. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Displays blackberry, cherry and hints of sweet tobacco. Full-bodied, with soft, velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Very pretty and solid. This is structured and chewy. Needs time. Best after 2013. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH FERRAND LARTIQUE  2005 $ 36.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 90 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 88 Thank goodness this estate’s new consultant, Stephane Derenoncourt, has toned down what was often too much new oak. He also appears to have built in more density. The 2005 is a beautifully exuberant, sexy wine displaying copious black cherry, toasty oak, raspberry, and vanillin notes. Pure, rich, medium to full-bodied, and luscious, patience will not be required for this beauty as it can be consumed now and over the next 12-15 years. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Displays aromas of blackberry and dark chocolate. Medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a fruity finish. There's a hint of toasty oak. Best after 2011. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH PAVIE  2005 $ 409.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 98 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 100 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. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW 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. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH LEOVILLE LAS CASES  2005 $ 449.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 98 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 100 Another titanic effort from the Delon family, the 2005 Leoville Las Cases is probably the greatest wine made at this estate since Jean-Hubert Delon’s father produced the 1986 and 1996. Only 37% of the production made it into the 2005, a blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with less than 13% Merlot and Cabernet Franc. An inky/ruby/purple color is accompanied by reticent aromatics that, with considerable coaxing, offer up subtle notes of toasty vanillin intermixed with lead pencil shavings, wet rocks, and enormously ripe, intense black cherry and creme de cassis. The wine hits the palate with a full-bodied, layered mouthfeel as well as enormous extract, concentration, and purity. This ageless, monumental claret requires a minimum of 15-20 years to approach maturity, and should last for a half century. It is about as classic a Leoville Las Cases as one will find. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2060. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW This is breathtaking. Black in color, with incredible aromas of crushed blackberry, mineral, licorice and lead pencil. Full-bodied, with a mind-blowing texture of seamless tannins that coat every millimeter of the palate. Goes on and on, with licorice, currant and flowers. Time will tell if it's better than the 2000. Best after 2017. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH GLORIA  2005 $ 51.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 90 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 92 A big-time sleeper of the vintage, this St.-Julien reveals notes of tapenade, spice box, cedar, sweet black cherries, and black currants. An opulent texture, terrific fruit, medium to full body, and abundant concentration suggest this stunning Gloria will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 15 years. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Licorice, blackberry and fresh cèpe on the nose. Full and velvety-textured, with lots of fruit and a long, caressing finish. Pretty and rich. The best Gloria in years. Best after 2014. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH BRANE CANTENAC  2005 $ 78.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 94 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 92 This is the finest Brane-Cantenac I have tasted in over thirty years. Unusually perfumed and already approachable (atypical for most 2005 Medocs), it reveals a deep plum/purple color as well as a stunningly flamboyant bouquet of smoked herbs, licorice, camphor, black cherries, currants, and notions of plums and blackberries. Elegant with silky tannin and medium body, it is clearly a classic statement on the Margaux appellation. While not a powerhouse, it is beautifully concentrated, stunningly balanced, and surprisingly forward. It could be drunk now after several hours of decanting, but it should age easily for 20+ years. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Shows mineral and blackberry aromas, with hints of licorice. Full-bodied, with soft, silky tannins and a long, smoky, earthy, meaty and fruity aftertaste. Long and stylish. Very refined and beautiful. Best after 2012. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH BEYCHEVELLE  2005 $ 78.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 90 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 89 While this is a strong effort from a property that too often does not live up to its pedigree, I had hoped the 2005 Beychevelle would merit an even higher score. A deep ruby/purple hue is accompanied by a sweet perfume of roasted herbs, black cherries, and even blacker fruits. The wine is medium to full-bodied with sweet tannin, good acidity, and a fruitcake-like spiciness and earthiness. Pure and long with a tannic clout that is neither intrusive nor excessive, this elegant, powerful effort should be at its finest between 2017-2030. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Has pretty blackberry, licorice and spices on the nose. Full-bodied, with medium tannins and a minerally, fruity, almost spicy finish. Balanced and refined. Best after 2012. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH LAFITE ROTHCHILD  2005 $1199.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 96 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 98 While the 2005 is another brilliantly classic Lafite Rothschild, for my taste, it comes in slightly behind their extraordinarily opulent 2003 as well as the dramatically powerful 2000. A blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot, the 2005 boasts a dark ruby/purple color in addition to that exceptional Lafite perfume of graphite, spring flowers, crushed rocks, and sweet black cherry and black currant fruit that exudes class and nobility. The wine is medium-bodied with extremely high levels of tannin in addition to sensational purity, length, and overall harmony. However, it is exceptionally backward, and even more tannic than either the 1995 or 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050+ -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Delivers blackberry, dried porcini, tobacco and licorice aromas. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and loads of dark chocolate, cigar box, currant, berry and mineral. The finish is long, with a coffee, almost meaty, aftertaste. Very beautiful and balanced. Best after 2013. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH LASCOMBES  2005 $ 99.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 95 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 93 A gorgeous example of Lascombes, the 2005, a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, continues the remarkable turn-around in quality that began five years ago. A stunningly opulent wine with a dense purple color, the 2005 possesses a beautiful perfume of spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, creosote, and graphite, full body, silky but noticeable tannins, a layered mouthfeel, and a stunning, 45+-second finish. This is a brilliant, modern-styled Margaux that should age for 30-35 years. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW 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. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH CALON SEGUR  2005 $ 98.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 92 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 93 A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, the totally closed 2005 Calon Segur is one of those traditionally made, backstrapping, uncompromising Bordeaux that will last 30-40 or more years. Its dense ruby color with purple nuances is followed by a nose that reluctantly offers up scents of damp earth, wood smoke, black cherries, cassis, and an exotic Asian spice character. The wine is formidably endowed and broodingly tannic, with noticeable acidity and a structured, nearly impenetrable mouthfeel. Nevertheless, it is easy to sense the weight, extract, and richness in this pure, deep wine. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW Has a beautiful nose of crushed berry, spices and nutmeg, with a hint of coffee. Then turns to licorice. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long finish of vanilla, berry and cinnamon. Beautifully crafted. Best after 2014. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW
CH BONALOGUE  2005 $ 49.99 ROBERT PARKER RATING: 88 -89 WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 91 A sleeper of the vintage, this impressively run, small Pomerol estate has turned out a fruit-driven (loads of black cherries and cassis) 2005 revealing notions of smoke, licorice, and wood. It is a plump, corpulent, fleshy, expansive wine to enjoy during its first 10-12 years of life. -ROBERT PARKER REVIEW This has a subtle nose of mineral, blackberry and licorice. Full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a fruity, silky texture on the finish. Smoky even. Best after 2014. -WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW