500918   (XD)    750 mL
$54.55 per btl    $163.65 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 89-91   WS: 89-91     JR: 17

TASTING NOTE: A candidate for the finest wine produced at this chateau, Beauregard's inky/ruby-colored 2005 offers up sumptuously rich aromas of graphite, smoke, black cherry jam, and cassis. With superb fruit, medium to full body, ripe tannin, and adequate acidity, it can be enjoyed over the next 10-15 years. Score - (89-91). (Robert Parker, April 2006)         

TASTING NOTE: Strawberry and blackberry follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. Score - (89-91). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )  

TASTING NOTE: Pure crushed grapes. Incredible nose. Full-bodied, with super concentration and ultraripe tannins. It lasts for minutes. Classy, but muscular. Certan de May is back with force. Score - (95-100). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

501130   (XD)    750 mL    
$41.65 per btl    $124.95 per 3-btl. lot
     
RP: 88-90   WS : 89-91

NEW
Score - (89-91). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: Clos Rene's outstanding inky/ruby/purple-tinged 2005 offers up sweet scents of mulberries, black cherries, smoke, and licorice. It boasts terrific fruit on the attack along with medium to full body, low acidity, abundant glycerin, and a heady, lush finish. Drink it over the next 10-12 years. Score - (90-92). (RP)

501841   (XD)    750 mL
$58.55 per btl    $175.65 per 3-btl. lot
     
RP: 90-92   WS: 89-91      JR: 15

NEW
TASTING NOTE:  A top-notch effort from this Pomerol estate, the 2005 Domaine de l’Eglise displays a dark ruby/purple color along with big, sweet aromas of melted licorice, chocolate, mocha, cherries, and plums. Deep, plush, and heady with attractive opulence, purity, and ripe tannin buttressed by decent acidity, it should hit its peak in 3-4 years, and keep for 15 or more. Kudos to proprietor Philippe Casteja for increasing the quality at this property. Score - (90-92). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE : Another property owned by Philippe Casteja, this dense purple-colored 2005 offers gorgeous scents of sweet black cherries intermixed with hints of smoke, pain grille, and damp forest floor. Opulent, rich, and well-balanced with enough glycerin to conceal its serious tannin and structure, this wine should close down after bottling, and drink well between 2011-2020+. Score - (90-92). (RP)

501460   (XD)    750 mL 
$81.35 per btl    $244.05 per 3-btl. lot
     
RP: 90-93    WS: 89-91     JR: 17     SME: 3.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Gazin is typically oaky, tannic, and backward in its youth, but the 2005 is more open-knit and not as aggressively woody. It possesses an impressive color as well as a moderately intense nose of black cherries, berries, caramel, subtle pain grille, roasted herbs, and black and red fruits. Medium-bodied, elegant, and pure, it should be at its finest between 2013-2025. P.S. I should note that three separate samples were slightly different in quality, two of which were better than this numerical score suggests. The ultimate truth won’t be known until the wine comes out in bottle, but I believe it will correspond to this review. Score - (90-93). (Robert Parker, April 2007 )

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: Gazin's superb 2005 is equal to their brilliant 2001. Its dense purple color is accompanied by sweet plum, cherry, and cassis fruit, a touch of pain grille, full body, sweet tannin, and a persistent, 45-second finish. This beauty will be drinkable in 4-5 years, and last for two decades or more. Score - (92-94). (RP)

503243   (XD)    750 mL
$137.85 per btl    $413.55 per 3-btl. lot
     
RP: 91-93     JR: 15.5     TW: 8.9

NEW
TASTING NOTE: From 7.5-acres spread over six parcels of gravel and some of the well-known blue clay of Pomerol, the 2005 La Clemence is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. The wines are fashioned by one of St.-Emilion’s up-and-coming wine producers, Christian Dauriac. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by notes of espresso roast, licorice, charcoal, Score - (91-93). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: The Pomerol estate of St.-Emilion's Christian Dauriac, Michel Rolland is the consulting winemaker at La Clemence. Their finest vintage to date, the 2005 (85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc) exhibits an inky/ruby/purple color in addition to a bouquet of smoke, blackberries, and ripe cherries, refreshing acidity, good definition, and a long finish. However, patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. Score - (91-93). (RP)

NEW
TASTING NOTE: La Conseillante’s superb 2005 appears capable of rivaling their 2000, 1990, 1989, and 1982. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by a sweet perfume of black raspberries, vanilla, licorice, and hints of earth and pepper. Spicy, plush, and elegant with a classic floral component, superb concentration, beautiful purity, medium body, sweet tannin, and an overall sense of finesse (despite its intense richness and fruit), it will be approachable in 4-5 years, and will keep for two decades or more. Score - (93-95). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: The finest La Conseillante since 2000, the dense purple-colored 2005 displays notes of sweet raspberries, creamy vanilla ice cream, spice box, and cedar. With good fruit, depth, and a broad, savory attack as well as mid-palate, this medium-bodied, finesse-styled, elegant wine represents a synthesis in style between a grand cru red Burgundy and a top-notch Bordeaux. Give it 3-5 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 20-25. Drink 2009-2034. Score - (93-95+). (RP)

TASTING NOTE:his is one of the finest efforts to yet emerge from this estate located on the plateau of Pomerol. A combination of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, it tips the scales at nearly 14% alcohol. Exhibiting a deep ruby/purple hue as well as a sweet bouquet of loamy soil, blueberries, cherries, plums, and mocha, it possesses lovely ripeness, savory elegance, purity, Score - (88-90). (Robert Parker, April 2006)

501791   (XD)    750 mL         
$68.45 per btl    $205.35 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 92-95    TW: 8.9   SME: 3.5+

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Made by Jean-Philippe Janoiux, with the assistance of Michel Rolland, this wine is performing spectacularly well. Produced from a 12+ acre vineyard near Vieux Chateau Certan, Le Pin, and Petit Village, the dense purple-hued 2005 exhibits wonderfully sweet, full-bodied aromas and flavors of plums and blackberries, a fabulous texture, a big, chewy richness, and high tannin that is largely obscured by the wine’s extravagant richness and intensity. It is a blend of 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. Remarkably, the natural alcohol achieved 13.7% in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025+. Score - (92-95). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: A huge nose of chocolate, espresso roast, toasty oak, and spice jumps from the glass of this spicy, rich, tannic, structured, highly extracted Pomerol. A true vin de garde, the 2005 will require 5-6 years of cellaring, and should last for two decades thereafter. Score - (90-92). (RP)

NEW
As I wrote last year, this is unquestionably the finest La Fleur de Gay produced since the back-to-back vintages of 1989 and 1990. A 100% Merlot cuvee cropped at a low 28 hectoliters per hectare, it has put on even more weight and richness since 2006. There are approximately 1,000 cases of this brilliant Pomerol that exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sweet nose of black raspberries, blueberries, charcoal, truffles, and subtle espresso and toasty oak notes. Full-bodied, beautifully textured, opulent, and fleshy with exceptional precision as well as clarity, this fabulous effort will need 5-7 years of bottle age, and should drink well for 25 or more years.Score - (94-96). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE : Perhaps the finest La Fleur de Gay made since the brilliant back-to-back vintages of 1989 and 1990, this 100% Merlot cuvee, aged in 100% new Darnajou French oak barrels and bottled unfiltered, reveals superb elegance and minerality. Its saturated blue/purple color is accompanied by beautiful blueberry, raspberry, and licorice characteristics backed up by spicy oak. The wine is noble and racy as well as powerful, full-bodied, and deceptively tannic. It will require 3-4 years of bottle age, and should last for two decades. Score - (92-94). (RP)

NEW
TASTING NOTE: This beautiful wine is aptly named. Made in a quintessentially elegant style, with layers of black currant and cherry fruit intermixed with plum, licorice, and vanillin characteristics, medium to full body, sweet tannin, good weight and depth, and no hard edges, this impressive Pomerol should be drinkable in 5-7 years, and keep for 20-25. Score - (92-94). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE : Made in Pomerol's quintessentially elegant style, this 2005 reveals pure raspberry and cherry fruit intermixed with spice box, cedar, and licorice. With superb purity, medium body, and stunning concentration, 3-4 years of cellaring will be beneficial, and it should last for 15+. Score - (92-94). (RP)

TASTING NOTE: Focused aromas of licorice and blackberry. Minerals and flowers. Complex. Licorice. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins. Powerful and muscular. Long and silky. A beauty. This is 1982. So structured. Hard to think this won't be 100 points, but who knows? This will age forever.Score - (95-100). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

TASTING NOTE : Pretty raspberry and fresh flower aromas follow through to a full-bodied palate, with tender tannins and a long, fruity finish. Very refined. Score - (89-91). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

TASTING NOTE: Very subtle aromas of blackberry, licorice and lightly toasted oak. Full-bodied and dense with round and soft tannins. Long finish. Score - (92-94). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

TASTING NOTE: Aromas of very ripe strawberries and cream. Full-bodied, with very soft tannins and lots of pretty fruit. Refined and inviting already.Score - (92-94). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

NEW
TASTING NOTE: The incomparable oenologist Michel Rolland has produced his finest Bon Pasteur since the monumental 1982 (which is still drinking well, and out-classes many wines 3 to 4 times its price). This exciting effort boasts aromas and flavors of mocha, fudge ice cream, espresso roast, black cherries, cassis, and caramel. The complex aromatics are followed by an Score - (93-95). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE : A superb effort from this Pomerol estate, the 2005 ranks alongside their outstanding 2000, 1990, and 1982. It exhibits a dense blue/purple color as well as an extraordinary perfume of espresso roast, mocha, blueberries, cassis, and smoky licorice. Full-bodied with sweet tannin, stunning definition, layers of concentration, and the tell-tale freshness and delineation that make 2005 such a singular vintage, it should be drunk between 2009-2023. Score - (92-94). (RP)

502229   (XD)    750 mL
$167.60 per btl    $502.80 per 3-btl. lot

689869    (XD)   1500 mL
$ 336.15 per btl

689877    (XD)    3000 mL
$ 693.10 per btl

RP: 94-96     WS: 89-91     TW: 9.4   SME: 4.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE:The first top-notch effort under new owner, Catherine Pere-Verge, and winemaking guru, Michel Rolland, Le Gay’s 2005 is reminiscent of some of the estate’s monumental wines made in the post-World War II era (1947 and 1950). Its dense purple color precedes a luxurious bouquet of licorice, acacia flowers, blackberry and blueberry liqueur, and kirsch. Full-bodied with a fabulous texture as well as purity, it also possesses some lofty, but sweet tannins that are largely concealed by abundant extract, glycerin, and alcohol. This amazing wine represents a new reference point for Le Gay. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035+. Score - (94-96). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: The 2005 is unquestionably the finest Le Gay since 1982, 1975, and perhaps even 1947. Kudos to consulting winemaker Michel Rolland and the estate's relatively new proprietor, Catherine Pere-Verge, for pushing the envelope to this level. Reminiscent of an old style Le Gay or Lafleur, it boasts an inky/blue/purple color as well as an exquisite perfume of raspberry and blueberry liqueur intermixed with flowers, kirsch, licorice, and earth. This dense, powerful, concentrated, full-bodied yet well-balanced and symmetrical Pomerol possesses a boatload of tannin, but it is largely concealed by the lofty alcohol, glycerin, and extract. A brilliant effort, it represents a new reference point for Le Gay. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2035. Score - (94-96). (RP)

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Along with Petrus, l'Eglise-Clinet is the superstar of Pomerol in 2005. Proprietor Denis Durantou has produced one of this estate's most monumental wines. Adding weight and richness since last year, this inky/purple-colored effort offers up a phenomenal bouquet of melted tar, truffle oil, black cherry liqueur, blackberries, caramel, and espresso roast. Powerful, full-bodied, amazingly rich, huge, and dense flavors are accompanied by a boatload of sweet tannin and glycerin. This wine will need considerable bottle age before it reaches full maturity, and it should last for 3-4 decades. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035+.
Score - (96-100). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: A spectacular offering from proprietor Denis Durantou, the 2005 ranks alongside the 2000 and 1998 l'Eglise-Clinets. An inky/ruby/purple color is followed by a sumptuous bouquet of violets, melted licorice, creosote, black cherries, blackberries, and espresso. Boasting super intensity, huge, full-bodied opulence and power, and plenty of sweet tannin and glycerin, I would not be surprised to see this 2005 shut down after bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2035. Score - (96-98+). (RP)

504787   (XD)    750 mL  
$296.50 per btl    $889.50 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 94-96    WS: 95-100     JR: 18.5     SME: 4.5

TASTING NOTE: This is incredible. This is a bomb. Exotic. Complex aromas and flavors of ripe fruit, dark chocolate, coffee and light raisins. Full-bodied, big and velvety. Very, very long. Gorgeous. This could be close to 100 points. Score - (95-100). (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 30, 2006)

TASTING NOTE: 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. Score - (92-94). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006)

TASTING NOTE: This is rich and wonderful with blackberry and cherry character. Full-bodied and dense yet refined. Long and silky. Fantastic for a second wine. Almost classic quality. Score - (92-94). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

NEW
TESTING NOTE: The uncontested star of Pomerol, there are 2,400 cases of the 2005 Petrus, which appears to be the finest wine made at this estate since the 1998 ... and that's saying something. It boasts an inky/blue/ruby/purple color along with an extraordinary bouquet of sweet mulberries, black cherries, cassis, vanillin, and spice box. While powerful and full-bodied with high tannin, it displays no aggressiveness or austerity. This massive, rich, super-intense Pomerol will be at its finest between 2018-2050+. It is another brilliant achievement for Christian and Jean-Francois Moueix. Score - (98-100). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

 
PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: Proprietor Jean-Francois Moueix told me this wine reminds him of the 1947 Petrus. Production in 2005 (2,300 cases) was about half of what could be produced, and the resulting wine should last for a half century or more. A dense purple color is followed by a promising nose of sweet black and red fruits interwoven with pain grille, mineral, licorice, and mocha-like characteristics. This full-bodied, powerful, exceptionally pure, multilayered effort is a bigger, fuller Petrus than the 2003, and easily as structured as the 2000. Only time will tell whether it will turn out to be as complex and noble as the 1998. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2050+. Score - (96-100). (RP)

TASTING NOTE:Extremely floral aromas with raspberry and cherry undertones. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. This is very structured. Muscular. Best ever? Score - (95-100). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

TASTING NOTE: Smells like summer pudding with cream. Full-bodied, with velvety yet fine tannins and a long finish. Very caressing and pretty.Score - (92-94). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

TASTING NOTE: 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. Score - (95-100). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

1er Grand Cru Classé (B)
505420   (XD)    750 mL
$391.70 per btl    $1,175.10 per 3-btl. lot
     
510545    (XD)   1500 mL
$783.35 per btl

RP: 96-99    WS: 92-94     TW: 9.4+   SME: 4.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE: It seems like proprietor Hubert de Bouard has the Midas touch no matter what he does. The profound 2005 Angelus (a 7,000-case blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc that achieved 14.5% natural alcohol) may be the finest wine produced at this estate since 1990 and 1989. An amazingly rich bouquet of espresso roast interwoven with blueberry liqueur, violets, and graphite is followed by a wine of enormous richness, full body, superb acidity, huge tannin, and nearly perfect symmetry. This staggering effort is more backward than such recent vintages as 2003 and 2000, but after 5-10 years of cellaring, it will provide immense pleasure for three decades or more. It is a titan in the making!
Score - (96-99). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: 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+. Score - (96-98+). (RP)

NEW
TASTING NOTE: La Chapelle d'Ausone only hints at what purchasers will find in the 2005 Ausone, a 50- to 100-year wine whose production consists of a mere 15,000 bottles. Black as a moonless night with a soaring nose of spring flowers, creme de cassis, melted licorice, truffles, and blueberries, it is incredibly intense with extremely high extract, tannin, and alcohol, yet is unbelievably delicate and light on its feet for such a massive wine. This is a brilliant winemaking achievement from an extraordinarily hallowed terroir on the southern hillside slopes of St.-Emilion. The 2005 will not be ready to drink for 15-20 years, but in a hundred years, wine lovers will still be singing its praises. An amazing accomplishment! Alain Vauthier has accomplished such extraordinary things at Ausone over the last few vintages, it is difficult to imagine the 2005s might be the pinnacle of his achievement. However, Vauthier never rests on the status quo ... so who knows? Score - (98-100). (Robert Parker, April 2007)

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: I'm not going out on a limb saying the 2005 Ausone is better than the 2003, 2000, etc., but it is certainly at the same level. It is a wine of great intensity with extraordinary extract as well as a seamless integration of huge levels of tannin and alcohol. Amazingly deep and multilayered, but so ethereal it must be tasted to be believed, it is a rich, full-throttle offering that should outlive us all. It should not be consumed before 2020, but I suspect 95% of it will be long gone by then. Kudos to Alain Vauthier for pushing the envelope as far as anyone in Bordeaux is doing today. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2100! Score - (96-100). (RP)

NEW
Score - 91-93.  (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: 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. Score - (90-93). (RP)

1er Grand Cru Classé (B)
504308   (XD)    750 mL
$114.05 per btl    $342.15 per 3-btl. lot
     
689174   (XD)    1500 mL
$ 228.10 per btl

RP: 93-95     WS: 92-94     JR: 17     SME: 3

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Perhaps the finest wine this estate has made since I began my career nearly 30 years ago, the 2005 is a blend of 70% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon made from yields of 35 hectoliters per hectare. This is one of the few grand cru St.-Emilions that is available in reasonable quantities (6,000+ cases). Intense and rich with a tannic structure that suggests 5-7 years of cellaring will be necessary, it should keep for 25-30 years.  Score - (93-95). (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: 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. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028. Score - (92-95). (RP)

1^er Grand Cru Classé (B)
505438   (XD)    750 mL
$118.00 per btl    $354.00 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 94-96   WS: 92-94

TASTING NOTE: Unquestionably the most compelling wine made at this estate since their perfect 1990, this renowned terroir has turned out a prodigious 2005 made from a blend of 70% Merlot, and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Yields were only 34 hectoliters per hectare, and the alcohol content exceeds 13.5%. The bouquet is reminiscent of the 1990's with scents of blueberries, crushed rocks, acacia flowers, blackberries, and subtle wood. Stunningly rich and full-bodied, with a more tannic structure than the 1990 as well as abundant purity, freshness, and multiple layers, it is a noble, racy effort with fabulous potential. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2030.  Score - (94-96).  (Robert Parker, April 2006)    

1er Grand Cru Classé (B)
501221   (XD)    750 mL
$88.25 per btl    $264.75 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 88-90?    WS: 92-94   

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Intense aromas of blackberry and hints of wet earth. Full-bodied, with round tannins and a fresh, fruity finish  Score - (92-94). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: Probably the finest Belair I have ever tasted, proprietor Pascal Delbeck has fashioned a deep ruby-hued 2005 with a sweet bouquet of black cherries, earth, forest floor, and spice. A steely backbone gives structure to this medium-bodied, elegant, generously concentrated St.-Emilion. It will benefit from 5-6 years of cellaring, and should keep for two decades. Score - (87-89). (RP)

Grand Cru Classé
502708   (XD)    750 mL
$98.20 per btl    $294.60 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 94-96     WS: 89-91     JR: 16     SME: 3.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE: The spectacular 2005 Bellevue should rival, possibly eclipse their 2000. This 15.5-acre, south/southwest facing vineyard, near both Beau Sejour Becot and Beausejour-Duffau as well as Angelus, has been on a qualitative roll since Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt began to manage the estate in 2000. A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, it possesses an extraordinary mineral component along with huge, sweet blackberry and cassis notes with hints of raspberries and crushed rocks. A super black/purple color only hints at the wine's richness, massive concentration, and monster tannins. It represents the essence of terroir. Some people were surprised that Bellevue was not promoted in the new St.-Emilion classification, but they have only been making high quality wines since 2000. Prior to that, there was a succession of mediocrities. The 2,000-case 2005 came in at a whopping 14.5% natural alcohol, but the alcohol is barely noticeable due to the wine's richness. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028+.  Score - (94-96).  (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: This estate has been on a qualitative hot streak since 2000, when it was taken over by the brilliant team of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt. Looking more like a vintage port than a traditional Bordeaux, the 2005 (less than 2,000 cases produced) was fashioned from yields of 38 hectoliters per hectare. A midnight black color is accompanied by an extraordinary perfume of crushed rocks, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and flowers. Boasting a fabulous texture, superb richness, huge tannin, and massive concentration, this stunning 2005 will need 7-10 years to reach adolescence. It is a brilliant wine, but not for the shy of heart. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2026. Score - (94-96). (RP)

Grand Cru
505859   (XD)    750 mL  
$421.40 per btl    $1264.20 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 96-100    WS: 95-100     SME: 4

NEW
TASTING NOTE: The ultimate garage estate (5 acres planted with 45-year-old Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and a tiny amount of Cabernet Sauvignon), the 2005 Bellevue Mondotte was cropped at 15 hectoliters per hectare, which is amazing given the fact that there are 5,500 vines per hectare. The wine was given a 10-day cold soak as well as a 42-day maceration, fermentation in open top oak tanks, malolactic in barrel, and was aged 3 months on its lees. A 4,000-bottle cuvee of pure nectar, it boasts a dense purple color along with notes of spring flowers, kirsch liqueur, blackberries, cedar, incense, and spice. The flamboyant aromatics are followed by a wine of great distinction, huge richness, massive body, good acidity, and high tannin. The final blend of 90% Merlot and the rest equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc has resulted in a monumental wine that requires 8-10 years of cellaring; it should keep for 40+ years.  Score - (96-100).  (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: Wow. This is incredible. Pure raspberry aromas jumping out of the glass. The palate is dense and powerful with loads of fruit and hints of chocolate and toasted oak. Tannic. This is extraordinary. Blockbuster. Score - (95-100). ( WS)

1er Grand Cru Classé (B)
504449   (XD)    750 mL
$133.90 per btl    $401.70 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 90-93      WS: 89-91     JR: 16     TW: 9.0   SME: 3.5

TASTING NOTE: This is the finest Canon produced under the Chanel ownership and John Kolasa's administration. A striking minerality interwoven with black currant and flower aromas jump from the glass of this medium to full-bodied, dense, freakishly elegant effort. Possessing beautiful structure, good acidity, yet remarkable intensity as well as precision, this deep purple-colored 2005 will undoubtedly close down after bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025.  Score - (90-93). (Robert Parker, April 2006)  

Grand Cru Classé
505412   (XD)    750 mL
$137.85 per btl    $413.55 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 92-94     WS: 95-100     JR: 17.5     TW: 9.1   SME: 4

TASTING NOTE: 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.
Score - (95-100). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )  

2nd Wine of Ch. Ausone
506717   (XD)    750 mL
$193.35 per btl    $580.05 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 92-94     WS: 95-100     JR: 17.5     TW: 9.3   SME: 4.5+

TASTING NOTE: This is really beautiful with blackberry and spice aromas that follow through to a full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a long finish. This is too good for a second wine. Score - (95-100). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )  

1er Grand Cru Classé (A)
506816   (XD)    750 mL 
$1,085.75 per btl    $3,257.25 per 3-btl. lot

689687   (XD)   1500 mL
$2,180.40 per btl

510552   (XD)   3000 mL
$4,387.55  per btl  

RP: 96-100    WS: 95-100     JR: 19+     TW: 9.7   SME: 4.5+

NEW
TASTING NOTE: This spectacular blend of nearly equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot has put on weight over the last year (as most top Chevals tend to do). The color is an inky/blue/ruby/purple, and the wine reveals an extraordinary aromatic profile of subtle mocha, licorice, pain grille, and abundant red, blue, and black fruits. As usual, there is an underlying hint of menthol, or is it forest floor? A classic, quintessential medium-bodied Cheval Blanc boasting a stunning texture and high tannin, but neither aggressiveness nor angularity, the 2005 appears capable of rivaling the extraordinary 2000 and 1998. However, the production of 95,000 bottles is relatively small. It requires 6-8 years of bottle age, and it should evolve effortlessly for 35+ years.  Score - (96-100). (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

Grand Cru Classé
502351   (XD)    750 mL
$61.50 per btl    $184.50 per 3-btl. lot

689182    (XD)   1500 mL
$123.95 per btl     

RP: 92-94     WS: 92-94     JR: 16+?     TW: 9.2   SME: 3.5+

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Made by owner Stephan von Neipperg with the assistance of consultant Stephane Derenoncourt, this estate's wines sell for a realistic price given how high the quality has been over the last decade. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the dense blue/purple-tinged 2005 reveals a sweet perfume of scorched earth, creme de cassis, pain grille, espresso roast, and a hint of chocolate. Opulent, hedonistic, and flamboyant, this is one 2005 that will be delicious young, yet is capable of aging for 15 or more years.
Score - (92-94). (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: 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. Score - (92-94). (WS)

Grand Cru
501866   (XD)    750 mL
$133.90 per btl    $401.70 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 94-96

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Cropped at 25 hectoliters per hectare, this 1,000-case blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc is fashioned from 65-year-old vines, and is among the most concentrated wines of Bordeaux. Akin to wines produced in the late 19th century, the black/purple-hued 2005 boasts remarkable intensity, power, concentration, and tannin. The 55-day maceration, 14% alcohol, and layers of fruit and glycerin result in a formidable claret that should not be approached before 2015. This colossal-sized, incredibly pure, well-balanced St.-Emilion appears set for 40-50 years of evolution. It is an exquisite anomaly in terms of modern day winemaking!  Score - (94-96). (Robert Parker, April 2007)     

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE:This is a wine for readers with incredibly long life-expectancies as it possesses the power and longevity associated with many pre-phylloxera, 19th century wines of Bordeaux. Like so many of the small St.-Emilion estates, there are no compromises at Clos de Sarpe. The 2005 was hand-harvested from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare, given a 55-day maceration, and aged in a combination of new wood. It will be bottled unfiltered. The wine achieved 14+% alcohol naturally. This opaque purple-colored, massive, ferociously tannic offering reveals scary concentration levels, huge dry extract, and technical numbers that are off the charts. Despite its impressive credentials, size, richness, and overall balance, it will close down after bottling, and re-emerge 10-15 years later. My conservative guess is that this gigantic, colossal St.-Emilion will be drinkable around 2015-2020, and last for 40-50 years. Score - (94-96). (RP)

Grand Cru Classé
502682   (XD)    750 mL
$58.55 per btl    $175.65 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 90-92     WS: 92-94     JR: 17     SME: 4+

TASTING NOTE: A perfectly balanced wine with blackberry and coffee character. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long, rich finish. Dense.  Score - (92-94).  (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )   

1^er Grand Cru Classé (B)
504043   (XD)    750 mL
$118.00 per btl    $354.00 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 94-96     WS: 92-94     JR: 17.5     SME: 3.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE: This estate has resurrected itself in a dramatic fashion thanks to the new proprietor, Monsieur Cuvelier and the hard work of his estate manager, Tony Balu, and a consulting team headed by Stephane Derenoncourt. The nearly 50-acre vineyard is planted with 85% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The 6,000-case 2005 may rival the spectacular 2003, which is currently outstanding. The black/purple-hued 2005 is a wine of extraordinary intensity displaying a beautiful floral nose of licorice, blueberry, creme de cassis, scorched earth, lead pencil, and pain grille notes. Given a Burgundian-like upbringing of malolactic in barrel and five months of lees aging with frequent batonnage, this beauty reached nearly 15% natural alcohol, and boasts enormous concentration, intensity, and richness. It should turn out to be a modern day classic. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030+  Score - (94-96). (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: 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. Score - (94-96). (RP)

Grand Cru
501940   (XD)    750 mL
$31.75 per btl    $95.25 per 3-btl. lot

689810    (XD)    1500 mL
$65.45  per btl   

RP: 87-89    WS: 89-91    

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Very raisiny with flowers and blackberry that follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a juicy finish. Big wine.  Score - (89-91). (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: Following some indifferent efforts between 2002-2004, the Reiffers family has had resounding success with all three of their 2005s (Cote de Baleau, Grandes Murailles, and Clos St.-Martin). The dense purple-colored Cote de Baleau offers up notes of kirsch liqueur and black fruits in its sweet, concentrated, full-bodied personality. With ripe tannin as well as decent acidity, it will offer lovely drinking over the next 12-15 years. Score - (90-92). (RP)

Grand Cru
501726   (XD)    750 mL
$114.05 per btl    $342.15 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 94-96     WS: 89-91   

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Based on older vintages, this garagiste wine is best consumed during its first 10-15 years of life. A hedonistic 100% Merlot cuvee, the 2005 (300 cases produced) possesses a dense ruby/purple hue as well as a beautiful bouquet of espresso roast, blackberry jam, sweet cherries, caramel, and spicy oak. Exotic, lush, super-intense, and impossible to resist, it is the vinous equivalent of liquid Viagra. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020. Score - (94-96). (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: There are only 3,000 bottles of this 100% Merlot cuvee, making it a quintessential poster boy for garage wines. Deep purple-colored with terrific texture, opulence, and voluptuousness, it is an exotic, sexy St.-Emilion to consume during its first 10-15 years of life. Score - (93-95). (RP)

Grand Cru
500934   (XD)    750 mL
$29.75 per btl    $89.25 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 89-91   WS: 89-91    TW: 9.1   SME: 4.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Owned by perfectionist Alain Vauthier (also the proprietor of Ausone), this brilliant sleeper of the vintage exhibits a dense ruby/purple color along with scents of crushed rocks, flowers, raspberries, blueberries, and licorice. Precise, medium-bodied, quintessentially elegant, flavorful, and broad, it should be one of the more accessible 2005s, and drink well for 10-15 years. Score - (89-91). (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: Alain Vauthier, who owns this small estate, has been ratcheting up the level of quality at Fonbel just as he has at his more well-known properties, Ausone and Moulin St.-Georges. The 2005 Fonbel offers an inky/purple color, sweet aromas of flowers, crushed rocks, blueberries, and cassis, a full-bodied palate, and loads of extract, glycerin, and sweet tannin. Approachable by the standards of this vintage, it should drink well upon release, and last for 12-15 years. A sleeper! Score - (90-92). (RP)

Grand Cru
506287   (XD)    750 mL
$490.85 per btl    $1,472.55 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 93-96    WS: 89-91     JR: 18.5

TASTING NOTE: A terrific effort from bad boy and leading garagiste, Jean-Luc Thunevin, and his sidekick, Murielle Andraud, the inky/blue/purple-tinged 2005 Valandraud exhibits superb aromas of graphite, black currants, blackberries, violets, white chocolate, sweet licorice, and espresso roast. Boasting great intensity, full-bodied power, beautiful purity, and layers of complexity, this stunning wine should be unusually long-lived. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025+.  Score - (93-96). (Robert Parker, April 2006) 

Grand Cru
503144   (XD)    750 mL
$59.50 per btl    $178.50 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 92-94     JR: 15     TW: 8.8

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Kudos to proprietor Christian Dauriac (and consultant Michel Rolland) for this outstanding effort as well as for Destieux's recent upgrade to a Grand Cru Classe in the most recent classification of St.-Emilions (suspended in March, 2007 because of litigation). From a 45-year-old vineyard in St.-Hippolyte planted with 66% Merlot and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon (an atypically high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon), the 2005 achieved 14.5% natural alcohol. The rusticity of older vintages has been tamed, and the result is a full-bodied, powerful, muscular, concentrated, intense St.-Emilion offering a dense ruby/purple color as well as loads of espresso roast, roasted meat, sweet cassis, and subtle herbal characteristics. This full-throttle blockbuster possesses impressive purity and density. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Score - (92-94). (Robert Parker, April 2007)  

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: 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. The 14.5% alcohol is the highest this estate has achieved. Blame the 2005 drought for that characteristic. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025+. Score - (92-94). (RP)

Grand Cru
501569   (XD)    750 mL
$53.55 per btl    $160.65 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 91-93   WS: 89-91     JR: 15+     SME: 3.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE: The over-achieving 2005 Faugeres (85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon) was made from low yields of 27 hectoliters per hectare. Rich and full-bodied, it boasts a deep ruby/purple hue along with notes of blueberries, black raspberries, cassis, minerals, flowers, and spice. This impressive effort tips the scales at 14.5% natural alcohol. New proprietor Silvio Denz has renamed his luxury cuvee, but the quality is as high as it was under Faugeres' former owner. The good news is that both Stephan von Neipperg (proprietor of Canon-La-Gaffeliere and a few other estates) and Michel Rolland have been hired as consultants. Score - (91-93). (Robert Parker, April 2007)   

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: 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. Enjoy it between 2010-2020. Score - (91-93). (RP)

Grand Cru
501593   (XD)    750 mL
$152.70 per btl    $458.10 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 94-96    WS: 92-94    SME: 4+  

NEW
TASTING NOTE: The Cuvee Speciale Peby has been a blockbuster since its inception in 1998 (it is meant to honor the former proprietress's deceased husband). Fashioned from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare, the 2005 is 100% Merlot from 45-year-old vines planted on a southeast facing slope in brown limestone soils. This sensational effort is as concentrated as a Bordeaux can be. Hugely extracted, but without any bitterness, it possesses abundant power, a black/purple color, and a beautiful perfume of creme de cassis, graphite, pain grille, and chocolate. In the mouth, it is formidably endowed and powerful with high tannin, glycerin, and richness. Like its sibling, it achieved 14.5% natural alcohol. Give it 7-10 years of cellaring and enjoy it over the following three decades. New proprietor Silvio Denz has renamed his luxury cuvee, but the quality is as high as it was under Faugeres' former owner. The good news is that both Stephan von Neipperg (proprietor of Canon-La-Gaffeliere and a few other estates) and Michel Rolland have been hired as consultants. Score - (94-96). (Robert Parker, April 2007)   

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: The new owners decided to change the name of the luxury cuvee from Peby-Faugères to Cuvee Speciale Peby. The stunning 2005 is the finest example of this wine since its debut vintage, 1998. Yields for this 100% Merlot (from southeast-facing, limestone-based slopes) were a tiny 25 hectoliters per hectare. This cuvee receives a Burgundy-like upbringing of malolactic in barrel and aging on its lees. A flamboyant, fragrant perfume of blueberries, blackberries, plums, anise seed, and camphor soars from the glass of this extraordinarily concentrated wine. In the mouth, it is stratospheric in texture with abundant amounts of sweet, silky tannin, high glycerin, and a 60-second finish. This is a prodigious effort from 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025+. Score - (93-96). (RP)

Grand Cru
501759   (XD)    750 mL
$37.70 per btl    $113.10 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 90-92     JR: 15.5

NEW
TASTING NOTE: Wine guru Stephane Derenoncourt appears to have tamed some of the blatant oakiness often found in young vintages of Ferrand-Lartigue. The result is a denser, richer, more balanced effort possessing medium to full body as well as loads of exuberant black raspberry and cherry fruit intermixed with pain grille and spice. Soft tannin along with abundant richness suggest this beautifully pure, long 2005 should be consumed during its first 12-15 years of life.  Score - (90-92). (Robert Parker, April 2007)      

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TASTING NOTE: This sweet, fruity, oaky, modern-styled St.-Emilion possesses good density, soft acidity, ripe tannin, and a fleshy, up-front personality. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years. Score - (89-91). (RP)

1er Grand Cru Classé (B)
505180   (XD)    750 mL
$173.55 per btl    $520.65 per 3-btl. lot      

RP: 91-94     WS: 92-94     JR: 17+?     TW: 9.0   SME: 3

NEW
Score - (92-94).  (Wine Spectator, June 30, 2006 )

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED
TESTING NOTE: 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. Score - (91-94). (RP)