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$164.95
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FWR 92–96
AM 92
JG 92
France
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Burgundy
-
Cote d'Or Red
In stock,
2
available
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92-96 points Fine Wine Review: "The Chambolle-Beaux Bruns has violet aromas. In the mouth, Barthod gets much more finesse than other Beaux Bruns producers with whom I am familiar, also with violet fruit here, and outstanding acidity, minerality, and energy. (Issue #114; 2006)"
92 points - 'Outstanding,' Allen Meadows (Burghound): "(50+ year old vines). This is quite densely fruited with a layered but tight nose of red, dark berry and violet aromas liberally sprinkled with ample, and pungent, warm earth notes that can also be found in abundance on the powerful and generous flavors that tighten up considerably on the rather linear and well-focused finish. There is good energy here and excellent concentration and the overall character is frank and direct though not rustic. Drink: 2015+. (Jan 2008)"
92+ points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "While most of the Barthod premier crus are in vines of forty years of age or so, Beaux Bruns’ are sixty year-old. The result in 2005 is a very deep, very sappy and outstanding bottle, which delivers a primary bouquet of plums, black cherries, chocolate, earth and cedar. On the palate the wine is full-bodied and intensely flavored, with a rock solid core of pure fruit, bright acids, ripe tannins, and great length and grip on the tangy finish. This will be a beauty, although it is currently awash in its glorious puppy fat of fruit, and will take a few years to allow the soil to emerge and compete with what is unquestionably a tide of vivid fruit. Lovely juice. 2012-2035. (Nov/Dec 2006)"
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$109.95
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BT 96
WS 93
RP 92
France
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Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock,
3
available
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96 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "Sublime cedar and red-fruit aromas, full body, noble tannins; this wine flirts with the Premiers Crus and commands respect for its authenticity, sincerity, and magnificent expression of terroir. (2011)"
93 points Wine Spectator: "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. (3/31/08)"
92+ points Robert Parker: "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. (Apr 2008)"
92 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "[$110 list] Deep, bright ruby-red. Deeply pitched aromas of black raspberry, black cherry, leather, smoked meat, earth and menthol. Chewy, brooding and deep, with concentrated black cherry, menthol, mineral and leather flavors framed by a powerful spine of acids and tannins. Really saturates the palate on the tannic back end. I'd give this classic St. Estephe a decade of aging, at which time this wine may well merit an even higher score. (May/Jun 2008)"
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$61.95
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WA 96
WS 95
Italy
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Piedmont
-
Barolo
In stock, 12+ available
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List $100.00
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96 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "[$100 list] The 2005 Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra emerges from the glass with endless layers of sweet spices, menthol, violets and dark fruit on a powerful, authoritative frame. This is a beautifully defined, sculpted wine of the very highest level. Tar, smoke and licorice linger on the finish. The tannins are massive at this stage, and the wine needs time, but the 2005 is undoubtedly one of the stars of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030. (Apr 2009)"
95 points Wine Spectator: "Perfumed and aromatic, with fresh ripe strawberry and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with focused, chewy tannins and loads of wood and jammy fruit. Powerful. Needs time. Best after 2013. 1,500 cases made. (7/31/09)"
Three Glasses Gambero Rosso: "Once again, Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra '05, which comes from the long-standing Clerico plot, shows itself to be truly outstanding. It has complex, caressing aromas of flowers and peach. It's still a little tight on the palate because of its extreme youth. It needs a few more years but it promises great things. (2010)"
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$59.95
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WA 95
WS 95
Italy
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Piedmont
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Barolo
In stock, 12+ available
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List $100.00
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95 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "[$100 list] The 2005 Barolo Pajana is off the charts. This deeply scented, layered Barolo possesses a striking bouquet of spices, tobacco, graphite, dark cherries and new leather that come together in a breathtaking display of elegance and power that is hard to fully capture in words. The tannins are, as usual, quite broad but they are also remarkably fine. In 2005 the Pajana shows breathtaking balance and harmony with a long, sensual finish. This is a superb effort from Domenico Clerico, and his team led by the mega-talented Massimo Conterno. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. (Apr 2009)"
95 points Wine Spectator: "Delivers ripe fruit, with lots of raisin and red licorice character on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, offering chewy yet polished tannins and a vanilla, blackberry and cherry aftertaste, with coffee and toasty oak. A blockbuster wine. Best after 2014. 1,000 cases made. (7/31/09)"
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$195.00
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RP 98
France
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Bordeaux
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Red
In stock,
6
available
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98 points Robert Parker: "St.-Emilion’s smallest vineyard produces so little wine (600 or so cases) that it is virtually impossible to find. This beautiful site (somewhat ghoulishly situated adjacent to St.-Emilion’s cemetery) produces what I have often called the 'Lafleur of St.-Emilion.' Classic notes of crushed rocks, spring flowers, kirsch, and even blacker fruits along with stunning nobility, complexity, and precision emerge from this beauty. The extraordinary 2005 possesses fabulous concentration, terrific texture, length, and depth, and huge tannins, so it requires at least a decade of bottle age. It is one of the vintage’s most compelling efforts. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2040. (Apr 2008)"
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$144.95
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WS 95
WA 93
IWC 92
Italy
-
Piedmont
-
Barolo
In stock, 12+ available
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List $372.00
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95 points Wine Spectator: "Strawberry pie and cream aromas lead to a full-bodied palate. Very thick and powerful, with big, velvety tannins and masses of fruit. A blockbuster style. Best after 2013. 750 cases made. (7/31/09)"
93 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "The estate’s 2005 Barolo Cicala is a transparent, mid-weight wine redolent of dark fruit, spices, minerals and licorice, all of which come together in the glass with superb elegance. Here the tannins are decidedly firmer and bigger than in the Colonello, even though the vineyards are just a few hundred meters apart! This powerful yet harmonious wine is simply radiant in its beauty. All that it needs is a little patience. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. (Apr 2009)"
92 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "[$186/750ml list; the first vintage for this wine since 2001, as this vineyard was hailed on in 2004) Good full medium red. Wild aromas of redcurrant, black cherry, tar and leather; this smells tannic but the fruit element expands impressively as the wine opens in the glass. Then large-scaled and firm in the mouth, with powerful acidity currently suppressing the wine's sweetness. There's a boatload of fruit here, but today the wine's mineral and gamey elements dominate. In a very traditional style, and completely different from the Colonnello: more backward and more masculine (Conterno refers to it as "our rude boy"). The serious tannins build with air and currently cut off the wine's finishing fruit. (Nov/Dec 2009)"
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$235.00
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RP 98
WS 98
WE 97
France
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Bordeaux
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Red
In stock,
6
available
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List $300.00
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98 points Robert Parker: "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. (Apr 2008)"
'Top 100 Wine of 2008 (#28)' and 98 points Wine Spectator: "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. (3/31/08)"
97 points and 'Enthusiast 100 of 2008', Wine Enthusiast: "Saint-Estèphe has a reputation for tannins, and this 2005 Cos lives up to that. But it does much more, because the tannins add richness along with intensely ripe black fruits, dark plums and figs. The dense tannins are finely balanced with fresh acidity, and a long-lasting aftertaste. Impressive. (Jun 2008)"
96 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Good ruby-red. Knockout nose combines currant, plum, minerals, licorice and graphite. Wonderfully sweet, rich and deep, but with near-perfect balancing acidity to frame the wine's lush fruit. This superb 2005 has it all. Finishes with noble, sweet tannins and palate-saturating persistence. On my most recent visit, Prats told me he considered 2005 to be superior to the 2003, and that the '05 may be 'our best wine ever.' (May/Jun 2008)"
18/20 points La Revue du Vin de France: "The 2005 possesses a volume, youthfulness, and and impressive power. The palate is rich and full, with abundant tannins but ripe with a warm finish. It prefigures the new style of Cos. (Jan 2012)"
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$1,999.95
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FWR 96–99
AM 97
WA 94–95
France
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Burgundy
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Cote d'Or Red
In stock,
1
available
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96-99 points Fine Wine Review: "The Richebourg displays true Richebourg character with its deep, explosive dark plum fruit. (Issue #114; 2006)"
97 points Allen Meadows (Burghound): "Just as it was last year, this is also very shut down at present though vigorous swirling coaxes superbly elegant and pure aromas that are wonderfully broad and include red, black, blue and violet aromas as well as seemingly a full cupboard of Asian spices that complement to perfection the extremely rich, full and sweet flavors that are quite floral in the mouth, all wrapped in a detailed and punchy finish where the tannic spine is completely buried. While it sounds moderately odd to describe it this way, there is a swagger to the '05 Riche and this will clearly be one very long distance runner. The other aspect that is notable is how intensely mineral-driven the '05 Riche is and interestingly, this seems almost delicate next to the opulence of the RSV. Indeed it's as though the Riche and RSV have exchanged personalities! A (very high level) qualitative choice but believe me when I say that the underlying characters of these two wines couldn't be more different. Drink: 2025+. (Jan 2008)"
94-95 points David Schildknecht (Wine Advocate): "The 2005 Richebourg suggests lightly cooked cherry, lilies, and vanilla-chocolate pot de creme, coming onto the palate with a gentle wave of creamy fruit, almost shockingly open-knit and youthfully generous. Low-toned richness of salted beef broth and a hint of wet stone add hints of gravitas, but despite ample (refined) tannins, there is nothing to restrain a veritable gushing of ripe, juicy, sweet finishing fruit. This might close up for a time, but these early indications suggest one ought to revisit it in 3-5 years and expect it to offer much earlier enjoyment than the Grands-Echezeaux or Romanee-St.-Vivant. (Apr 2007)"
94+ points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "The 2005 Richebourg is a big, blockbuster of a wine, with a firm and closed personality that is just loaded with layers of fruit. Today this broad-shouldered wine is youthfully four-square and not particularly pleased at being disturbed, but offers excellent potential for down the road. The bouquet is a primary blend of black cherries, plums, cocoa, duck, a serious base of soil and plenty of vanillin oak showing presently. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, deep and closed, with a rock solid core of fruit, fine focus, solid acids, and plenty of firm tannins on the long, young and palate-staining finish. This will be a reference point DRC Richebourg down the road, but it will demand some patience. 2020-2060+. (Nov/Dec 2006)"
94 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Bright ruby-red. Quite closed on the nose, hinting at dark cherry, chocolate and mocha. Then ripe, sweet and voluptuous in the mouth, with a thick texture leavened by harmonious acidity and lifted by sexy spices and flowers. This currently conveys a drier impression and comes off as more aggressive than the RSV, which is more likeable today. My sample appears to be slightly muted by some sulfur. Best today on the very long finish, which features big but thoroughly buffered tannins. This will need at least 15 years of aging. (Mar/Apr 2008)"
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$229.95
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BT 98
WS 95
IWC 94
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock,
6
available
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98 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "Profoundly deep and extraordinarily charming in the textural realm, this is a brilliant example of this superb vintage. Immense future. Drink: 2011 up to 2050. (2011)"
95 points Wine Spectator: "[$221 list] 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. (3/31/08)"
94 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "(contains a relatively high percentage of merlot, in the range of 30%) Good deep ruby-red. Wonderfully sweet, aromatic nose combines currant, chocolate and cedary oak. Fat, lush and silky, with atypical volume to the flavors of plum, tobacco and chocolate. Wonderfully supple, plump wine with layers of flavor, thoroughly sweet tannins and compelling aromatic persistence. Today the wine's substantial baby fat is masking its impressive underlying power. According to Borie, this 2005 combines the best traits of the chateau's 2003 and 2000. (May/Jun 2008)"
94 points Wine & Spirits: "Ducru delivers absolute deliciousness in 2005, a refined and elegant pleasure that just feels right in the end. It could be that after all the sleek, floral beauty, the polished chocolate-truffle tannin, there's a formidable grip that tightens around the finish. Suddenly it feels as hard as iron. If the aromatic beauty of the fruit can survive while the tannin matures, this could well be a wine to covet in 20 years. (Oct 2008)"
93+ points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "The 2005 Ducru-Beaucaillou, which was also raised in one hundred percent new wood, will have no difficulty carrying its new oak to the finish line and is a superb young vintage of this fabled estate. The nose is deep, pure and shows off a lovely tang to its aromatic mélange of black cherries, cassis, a touch of blood orange, tobacco leaf, soil and cedar. On the palate the wine is fullish, deep and rock solid at the core, with a nice girdle of tangy acidity, excellent focus and grip and a very long, ripely tannic finish. Today there is just a touch of oak spice that sticks out on the backend, but this should be absorbed with no difficulty over the next couple of years and the 2005 Ducru-Beaucaillou should prove to be one of the reference point vintages for this property. 2020-2070+. (May/Jun 2012)"
19/20 points La Revue du Vin de France: "Displayhing great youth on the nose with fruit that's still quite fresh, this 2005 is a wine of immense pedigree. The palate combines suaveté and density with polished tannins. (Jan 2012)"
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$275.00
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WS 96
RP 95
IWC 93
United States
-
Cabernet & Blends
-
California
In stock,
4
available
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96 points Wine Spectator: "Smooth, rich and generous, showing plush, supple, deeply concentrated currant, blackberry and wild berry flavors, with savory herb, cedary oak, mineral and pebble notes. Impressive for its combination focus, depth, purity of flavor and finesse. Drink now through 2014. 500 cases made. (8/31/08)"
95+ points Robert Parker: "The 2005, which is again a wine dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, has a dense purple color, gorgeous structure, good acidity, but full-bodied power, a layered mouthfeel, and sweet oak (mostly Taransaud) that integrates beautifully into the black currant and blackberry fruit intermixed with espresso, licorice, and spice. This is another beauty, slightly more restrained and less flamboyant compared to 2004, but built for the long haul. This wine should age for 20-25 years. (Dec 2007)"
93 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "(15.6% alcohol; 80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% merlot) Good medium ruby. Hugely ripe aromas of sappy black raspberry, black cherry, mocha and smoke, with a whiff of maple syrup. Lush, sweet and seductive; a wine of outstanding fullness if not quite the complexity of the 2006, which has the advantage of some cabernet franc. The tannins are remarkably lush, broad and sweet. This was aged in 100% new Taransaud barriques, vs. 90% for the '05. (May/Jun 2008)"
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$125.00
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RP 95
BD 95
WS 93
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock,
2
available
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95 points Robert Parker: "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. (Apr 2008)"
95 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guides to the Wines of France: "Complex aromas, clean, very defined and above all less "roasted" than other crus of the same vintage. Its power and breed are outstanding. A wine of great aging potential and ultra-classic craftsmanship. Drink: 2011 up to 2030. (2011)"
93 points Wine Spectator: "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. (3/31/08)"
93 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Medium red. Very ripe aromas of plum and musky brown spices; redder in character and less precise than the 2006. Then big, sweet and plump on the palate, with full, mellow flavors of red berries, tobacco and mocha, plus a light smoked meat note. Finishes with sweet tannins and lingering, fully ripe fruit. This is showing its lush side today and is hiding its underlying structure. (May/Jun 2008)"
18/20 points Stephen Brook (The World of Fine Wine): "Very deep red. Sweet stylish blackcurranty nose; this has lift and elegance. Ample fruit, but the tannins dominate now, making this a forceful and undeveloped wine with a long way to go. This is classic Pauillac, with power, elegance, and spice. Adolescent but vigorous and well structured, with no excessive extraction. Admirable wine. (Issue #26; 2009)"
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$545.00
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RP 97
IWC 97
WE 95
United States
-
Cabernet & Blends
-
California
In stock,
7
available
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97 points Robert Parker: "Not unexpectedly, the 2005 Harlan Estate performed slightly better than it did last year. As these wines often do, it continues to put on weight as it is bottled very late by Napa standards, and there is no fining or filtration. The 2005 exhibits a gorgeous thick-looking, ruby/purple color in addition to a beautiful nose of burning embers interwoven with creme de cassis, roasted meats, sweet black truffles, and spring flowers. A hint of lead pencil shavings also emerges from this cuvee, which seems to want to be both a Pauillac and a ripe vintage of La Mission Haut Brion. Full-bodied, dense, pure, and revealing sweeter tannin than I remember, it can be drunk now, but it will no doubt display even greater complexity in 10, 20, and 30 years. (Dec 2008)"
97 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Full bright ruby. A black hole of a nose: cassis, black raspberry, mocha and licorice, with a suggestion of almost roasted fruits. Then utterly palate-saturating, with a distinctly layered texture to the dark fruit and mineral flavors. Impeccably balanced, fresh wine with a spectacular slow-building finish that coats the palate with a flavor of black raspberry. A knockout. (May/Jun 2008)"
95 points Wine Enthusiast: "Smells a bit minty and peppery, but once in the mouth, turns ultra-generous in black currant, chocolate-covered mint and spicy cedar flavors. Massive, yet refined and elegant, and even with the firm tannins, grows more charming as it warms in the glass. Very fine quality, and likely to hold for many years. (May 2009)"
94 points Wine Spectator: "Dense and earthy, with savory herb, dried currant, spice, mint and cedary oak flavors, all tightly wound, compact and concentrated, yet with a seam of elegance and finesse. Very intense and powerful. To be released spring 2009. Best from 2011 through 2018. 1,850 cases made. (10/31/08)"
Robb Report: "However imposing the selection of wines at a tasting may be, if a bottle of Harlan Estate is present, the glasses--and the conversation--will naturally drift in its direction. This wine seems to draw into itself all of the elements of its impeccable terroir. In its exuberant fruit, we taste the sun’s warmth; in its delicate smoky-oak and sage notes, the surrounding woods; and in its soft, earthy finish, the Oakville soil. (10/1/09)"
The World of Fine Wine: "Muted nose: chocolate, plums, fruitcake. Not super-concentrated but has intensity of flavor and fine acidity. Fine-grained tannins, surprisingly elegant and long. (Issue #32; 2011)"
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$345.00
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FWR 92–96
AM 95
JG 93
France
-
Burgundy
-
Cote d'Or White
In stock,
1
available
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92-96 points Fine Wine Review: "The Montrachet that I tasted is from the Chassagne side of the vineyard. There are also a couple of barrels from the Puligny side but they were not available to taste. There is some sucrosity in this wine (alcohol is 13.4%), but also surprisingly fine acidity with lots of glycerol. It is not easy to judge at this stage. (Issue #115; 2007)"
95 points Allen Meadows (Burghound): "(from a blend of both Chassagne and Puligny). Moderate oak frames more reserved white flower and acacia blossom aromas that introduce round, rich and sumptuous full-bodied flavors that possess a suave mouth feel because there is dry extract here to burn and this extract confers an almost thick but not heavy palate impression on the imposingly persistent finish. Like the Bâtard, this is presently almost painfully intense and should age well. Drink: 2017+. (Jul 2007)"
93 points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "The Jadot Montrachet hails from vines on the Chassagne side of this vineyard, and it shows a bit more reserve than the above wine in 2005. The bouquet is deep and primary, as it offers up notes of apple, lemon, grapefruit, great minerality and a fine base of vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is medium-full, focused and very long, but again with only moderate mid-palate depth for Montrachet. The finish is long and shows bright acids and good grip. Much like the Les Demoiselles, this is a very pretty and forward example of the vintage that will show extremely well out of the blocks and will only disappoint those accustomed to a bit more volume and core in their Montrachet. 2008-2015+? (Nov/Dec 2006)"
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$259.95
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IWC 94–97
RP 94–96
France
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Rhone
-
Chateauneuf-du-Pape
In stock,
2
available
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Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "Inky purple. Intense blackberry and raspberry preserve aromas show great depth and ripeness -no surprise, as Sabon told me that components of this are over 17.4% alcohol. Lush, creamy and almost liqueur-like in sweetness, but with good acid lift to the ripe boysenberry and blackberry flavors. Tannins sneak in on the back but are overwhelmed by the sheer weight of fruit. Stains the palate with dark fruit flavors. This was one of the highlights of my trip. 94-97 points."
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$99.95
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RP 96
WS 93
BD 92
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock,
3
available
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96 points Robert Parker: "The finest La Gaffeliere I have ever tasted, the prodigious 2005 boasts a dense ruby/purple color in addition to a flamboyant bouquet of lead pencil shavings, creme de cassis, blackberries, smoked meats, incense, and Asian spice. Fabulously deep and full-bodied as well as ethereal and exceptionally elegant for its explosive richness and intensity, its lightness of being reflects the vineyard’s sensational terroir. This succulent beauty appears to be approachable, but that belies some significant tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2030+."
93 points Wine Spectator: "[$79 list] Has a fabulous, opulent nose of crushed blackberry, wild licorice and flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins, lots of fruit and a long finish. A flavorful young red. Best after 2013. (3/31/08)"
92 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "Intensely colored, wonderful texture, a wonderfully intense and expressive wine, with lots of character, black fruit, tropical fruit, and roasted coffee, deep and soulful. Drink: 2011 up to 2020. (2011)"
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$99.95
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RP 98
WS 95
BD 95
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock, 12+ available
|
List $112.50
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*SPECIAL: Take 10% Off Listed Price!
(We'll reduce item's price when processing your order.)
98 points Robert Parker: "This great terroir on the Cote Pavie has long been recognized as one of the most privileged spots in St.-Emilion, but it was not until the wunderkind duo of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt took over in 2002 that the wine finally began to live up to its potential. Old timers who remember the 1945 Larcis Ducasse will attest to how great this cuvee can be. Sadly, fewer than 3,000 cases were produced of the 2005, a blend of 78% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Franc with a small dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Yields were a modest 27 hectoliters per hectare. This stunning effort reveals one of the most extraordinary aromatic displays of the vintage, offering up notes of sweet roasted herbs, jus du viande, black olives, espresso roast, creme de cassis, and kirsch liqueur. Extremely full-bodied, opulent, and lavishly textured with plush tannin as well as an ethereal elegance, a sublime personality, glorious sweet purity, and a layered texture, this amazing St.-Emilion is destined to become a legend. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2028. (Apr 2008)"
95 points Wine Spectator: "This is very grapey, with plenty of crushed blackberry and vanilla undertones, and floral as well. Full-bodied, soft and silky. Gushes with fruit. Hard not to drink this now, but give it some time. The fruit is amazing. Such purity. Best after 2014. 3,080 cases made. (3/31/08)"
95 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "An ultra-refined, superb wine, with an intense and deep body, a velvety texture, and sophisticated richness: unquestionably one of the great Saint-Emilions of the vintage. Drink: 2012 up to 2025. (2011)"
94 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Ruby-red. Superripe, vibrant nose offers cherry, blueberry, blackberry, mocha and fruity dark chocolate. Rich and wonderfully fine-grained, with excellent acidity leavening the impression of superripeness and giving cut to the intense dark berry, plum and mineral flavors. Finishes very long and lush, with a fine dusting of tannins and noteworthy subtlety. With its 14.5% alcohol, this is a big boy, but its energy and balance are impressive for such an opulent wine. (May/Jun 2008)"
94 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "While its Grand Cru classification places it in only the third tier of the St. Emilion hierarchy of quality, this intense, wonderfully rich wine is packed with sweet, well-ripened fruit and does a fine job at managing 2005 tannin. So succulent and fleshy that it could be drunk alongside juicy beef dishes right now, it has all the pieces in place to improve for at least another ten years. (Mar 2008)"
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$185.00
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RP 98
WS 95
BD 95
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock, 12+ available
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List $225.00
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98 points Robert Parker: "This great terroir on the Cote Pavie has long been recognized as one of the most privileged spots in St.-Emilion, but it was not until the wunderkind duo of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt took over in 2002 that the wine finally began to live up to its potential. Old timers who remember the 1945 Larcis Ducasse will attest to how great this cuvee can be. Sadly, fewer than 3,000 cases were produced of the 2005, a blend of 78% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Franc with a small dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Yields were a modest 27 hectoliters per hectare. This stunning effort reveals one of the most extraordinary aromatic displays of the vintage, offering up notes of sweet roasted herbs, jus du viande, black olives, espresso roast, creme de cassis, and kirsch liqueur. Extremely full-bodied, opulent, and lavishly textured with plush tannin as well as an ethereal elegance, a sublime personality, glorious sweet purity, and a layered texture, this amazing St.-Emilion is destined to become a legend. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2028. (Apr 2008)"
95 points Wine Spectator: "This is very grapey, with plenty of crushed blackberry and vanilla undertones, and floral as well. Full-bodied, soft and silky. Gushes with fruit. Hard not to drink this now, but give it some time. The fruit is amazing. Such purity. Best after 2014. 3,080 cases made. (3/31/08)"
95 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "An ultra-refined, superb wine, with an intense and deep body, a velvety texture, and sophisticated richness: unquestionably one of the great Saint-Emilions of the vintage. Drink: 2012 up to 2025. (2011)"
94 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Ruby-red. Superripe, vibrant nose offers cherry, blueberry, blackberry, mocha and fruity dark chocolate. Rich and wonderfully fine-grained, with excellent acidity leavening the impression of superripeness and giving cut to the intense dark berry, plum and mineral flavors. Finishes very long and lush, with a fine dusting of tannins and noteworthy subtlety. With its 14.5% alcohol, this is a big boy, but its energy and balance are impressive for such an opulent wine. (May/Jun 2008)"
94 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "While its Grand Cru classification places it in only the third tier of the St. Emilion hierarchy of quality, this intense, wonderfully rich wine is packed with sweet, well-ripened fruit and does a fine job at managing 2005 tannin. So succulent and fleshy that it could be drunk alongside juicy beef dishes right now, it has all the pieces in place to improve for at least another ten years. (Mar 2008)"
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$49.95
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WA 95
Spain
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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List $62.00
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95 points Neal Martin (Wine Advocate): "[$62 list] The 2005 Prado Enea Gran Reserva spends 36-months in oak, nine months in new oak after which it is racked into American oak that is 'semi-new' (i.e. a new barrel that is 'broken in' with a wine beforehand). It has an unashamedly opulent bouquet of primal, ripe, boysenberry, mulberry, dark chocolate and crushed violets that blossom with aeration. The palate is full-bodied with crisp acidity cutting through the pure blackberry and cassis fruit. It has wonderful focus and intensity, though the finish demonstrates convincing composure. This is an outstanding Gran Reserva whose silky texture will instantly win you over. Drink 2013-2030+. (Aug 2012)"
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$195.00
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RP 98
BD 97
WS 96
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock,
8
available
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98 points Robert Parker: "Probably the greatest Pape-Clement ever made, the dense purple-colored 2005 (a blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits sumptuous notes of smoky scorched earth, graphite, melted licorice, and blackberries. Once past the exquisite perfume, the wine reveals full body, extraordinary concentration, plenty of chocolate, smoke, cassis, and blackberry flavors, and that unmistakable volcanic ash-like earthiness that comes from this appellation. The tannins are slightly sweeter than those found in most northern Medocs, but this is still a backward, large-scaled effort that requires 7-8 years of cellaring. It should last for 30-35 years. (Aug 2008)"
97 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "The most complex of these Pape Clément wines on the nose and palate. It is splendidly built, long, generous, in Olympic shape. Drink: 2011 up to 2030. (2011)"
96 points Wine Spectator: "Dark in color, offering wonderful aromas of licorice, berry, fresh tobacco and currant, with Indian spices. Complex and full-bodied, with supersilky tannins that caress every inch of the palate. Long and satisfying. A joy to taste this young wine. Best after 2015. (3/31/08)"
96 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "[$200 list] One of the real stars in 2005, not just of its district, but in all of Bordeaux, Pape-Clement is a downright opulent wine with enormous, optimally ripened, black currant fruit, load of rich oak and a sense of succulence equaled by few. It is already beginning to show real complexity by way of its mildly toasty, tobacco-like accents and its flashes of olives and herbs, and it is firmed by wonderfully refined tannins that promise to hold it in fine stead for decades to come. (Mar 2008)"
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$299.95
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WS 100
RP 98
BD 98
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock,
4
available
|
List $600.00
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100 points Wine Spectator: "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. (6/30/08)"
98+ points Robert Parker: "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... 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. (Apr 2008)"
98 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "Fat and intense, corpulent, solid but well built. Pavie is amazingly full bodied and impressively reserved at the same time. Aging is imperative. Drink: 2011 up to 2030. (2011)"
96 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Saturated, deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines blackberry, minerals, crushed rock, truffle, vanillin oak and flowers; showing none of the porty quality of the sample I tried last year. A hugely concentrated essence of a wine, offering an incredible combination of sweetness, vibrancy and precision of fruit, thanks to strong acidity and powerful underlying minerality. The chewy tannins are totally buffered by the wine's material on the explosive back end. This wine has it all! Compared to the Pavie-Decesse, which essentially comes from a single block of old vines on limestone, this wine has clearly benefited by being an assemblage of soil types, with fruit from the foot of the slope contributing texture and richness. The 2005 Pavie should easily last for three or four decades. (May/Jun 2008)"
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$289.95
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RP 96
WS 96
BD 95
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock, 12+ available
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96+ points Robert Parker: "Pavie Decesse, a much smaller vineyard (9 acres) than Pavie, produces just over 400 cases of wine. The vines average 45+ years of age, and the blend contains no Cabernet Sauvignon and much less Cabernet Franc than Pavie. Yields are similar for the two estates, but Pavie Decesse exhibits more espresso, chocolate, and caramelized Merlot-like flavors, and reveals a certain freshness and precision because of its exquisite limestone-based terroir. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the blockbuster 2005 Pavie Decesse boasts an inky/purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of crushed rocks, acacia flowers, blackberries, blueberries, and a super-concentrated cranberry-like note. Its well-integrated toasty oak component is more noticeable than in the Pavie. Exceptionally concentrated, powerful, and long, it is meant for long-term aging in spite of the high percentage of Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+. (Apr 2008)"
96 points Wine Spectator: "Displays stunning aromas of crushed blackberry, strawberry and raspberry, with hints of sandalwood. Full-bodied, with focused flavors of fruit, toasty oak, vanilla bean and cedar. Long and caressing, this is a powerful yet balanced red. Best after 2016. 550 cases made. (6/30/08)"
95 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guide to the Wines of France: "An inky color and amazing richness suggest perfectly ripe grapes; the volume is impressive without the slightest hint of bitterness; the omnipresent tannins have remarkable finesse, with a superb, almost creamy finish. A great wine with great potential. Drink: 2012 up to 2025. (2011)"
94 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Saturated, deep ruby-red. Superripe black fruits, licorice, graphite and violet on the nose. Wonderfully sweet and scented on the palate, with terrific aromatic lift to the explosive dark fruit, mineral and floral flavors. The wine's powerful rocky minerality and high-pitched berry fruit nicely leaven the almost exaggerated ripeness of the vintage, giving this wine terrific freshness and extending its finish. An outstanding combination of sweetness and power. I can see this improving in bottle for 20 years. (May/Jun 2008)"
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$179.95
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WS 97
RP 95
IWC 93
United States
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Cabernet & Blends
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California
In stock,
3
available
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'Top 100 Wine of 2008' and 97 points Wine Spectator: "Shows gorgeous Cabernet purity, with a profound offering of ripe, fleshy currant, black cherry, blackberry, anise and mineral. Amazingly supple and harmonious, with tannins that are both gentle and tender and then just firm enough to let you know they're there. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2017. (10/15/08)"
95 points Robert Parker: "The 2005 Les Pavots (3,600 cases of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot) is a sensational wine, with a style that suggests a hypothetical blend of a great St.-Emilion and Pomerol. Chocolatey cassis notes intermixed with incense, licorice, and a hint of black olive are present in this wine. When it hits the palate, it comes across as very Pomerol-like, with lushness, full body, and opulence. The tannins are sweet, the pH high, and the wine gorgeously full, pure, dense, and long. It’s a terrific example of non-interventionalist winemaking that has turned out a beautiful, silky-textured wine that should age effortlessly for 15+ years. Like so many 2005s, this wine has really put on weight since I tasted it last year."
93 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "(63% cabernet sauvignon, 23% cabernet franc, 12% merlot and 2% petit verdot) Good deep ruby-red. Deep aromas of currant, raspberry, plum, tobacco, mocha and graphite. Sweet, lush and fat (the pH here is 4.02), with the rich, spicy red fruit flavors complicated by leather, mocha, licorice and cedar. The substantial tannins are smooth and harmonious and arrive late, allowing the subtle finishing flavors of cigar box, mocha and wild dry spices to expand in the mouth. This is 15.1% alcohol but boasts lovely physiological ripeness without any excess weight. (May/Jun 2008)"
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$149.95
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CG 96
W&S 96
BD 96
France
-
Bordeaux
-
Red
In stock,
3
available
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List $200.00
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96 points Wine & Spirits: "[$200 list] Baron was trapped in its oak en primeur, seeming flashy, luscious and soft. Now bottled and shipped, it has the unremitting tannic power of the vintage, balanced by unrelenting purity of fruit that somehow manages to anesthetize the monstrous tannin, to soften the extremely dry, mineral-bound finish into a caress. The wine may be bombastic, but it's also succulent and as sweet as a ripe black raspberry. It's easy to imagine this wine 50 years from now, in impeccable condition. (Oct 2008)"
96 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "One of the most memorable bottlings of our tastings of the 2005 Bordeaux, this wonderfully extracted effort captures all of the complexity and very deep curranty fruit for which the Pauillac appellation is justly revered, and it does so with a remarkable sense of balance and keen composition. It is clearly not one for the impatient, and its ample tannin requires upward of a decade before taming comes, but there are no questions at all about the depth of its fruity substance and its admirable stuffing or about its extremely promising future. (Apr 2008)"
96 points Bettane & Desseauve's Guides to the Wines of France: "Great, racy nose of tobacco; ample body with very noble and frank texture, firm tannins. A very big Pauillac, a touch less voluptuous than Ponter-Canet. Drink: 2011 up to 2030. (2011)"
94 points Robert Parker: "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. (Apr 2008)"
17.5/20 points La Revue du Vin de France+: "A wine in the traditional style of the house, round, opulent, and suave. (Jan 2012)"
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$74.95
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WA 95
PG 94
IWC 93
Spain
-
Red
In stock, 12+ available
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95 points Jay Miller (Wine Advocate): "However, the 2005 Reserva has considerably more stuffing and should easily outdistance the 2006. It is a glass-coating opaque purple color with an already complex perfume of floral, mineral, spice, and black fruit elements. Dense and packed, this structured but impeccably balanced offering will evolve for 8-10 years and have a 30+ year lifespan. (Jun 2010)"
94 points Peñín Guide: "(90% tempranillo, 10% graciano). Colour: very deep cherry. Nose: complex, powerful, aromatic coffee, cedar wood, creamy oak, ripe fruit. Palate: round, spiritous, powerful, fleshy, complex, flavourful, round tannins. (2011)"
93 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "(85% tempranillo, 10% graciano, 3% garnacha and 2% 'others') Vivid ruby. Flamboyant aromas of candied red fruits, incense and spicecake, with slow-building floral and mineral qualities. Silky in texture and deep in sweet raspberry and cherry flavors, picking up a zesty blood orange note with aeration. Very precise, with outstanding clarity to its spicy, tenacious finish. Definitely put this one away. (Nov/Dec 2010)"
92 points Wine Enthusiast: "Tight, pure and just right from start to finish. The nose offers bold berry, roasted plum, vanilla and spice aromas along with exceptional clarity, and the palate is snappy and pure but also dark and loaded with coffee, chocolate, mocha and fine raspberry and cherry flavors. Slightly oaky but smooth late, and composed. Drink now through 2014.. (Feb 2011)"
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$185.00
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RP 98
United States
-
Other
In stock,
3
available
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98 points Robert Parker: "Made from 100% Chardonnay from the Alban Vineyard, the 2005 Mr. K. The Nobleman possesses 235 grams of residual sugar per liter as well as exceptional acid levels. This incredibly rich, sweet white is almost like the Quintessence bottlings from Alsace’s Domaine Weinbach. Its mind-boggling purity, balance, intensity, and sweetness are balanced by the wine’s zesty acidity. An amazing achievement fashioned from 100% botrytised fruit, it will keep for 20 or more years. (Jun 2008)"
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