Chateau LaFleur-Gazin 2005 The sweetness of the fruit in this Pomerol is rather fetching, possessing a liquer-like character. In the mouth it is supple and fruity, with plums and cassis on a velvety palate. The flavors linger with the acidity- very nice.
The property is planted to 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. The wine is aged in barrel for 20 months, up to a maximum 25% new. The property, situated in between LaFleur and Gazin, is owned by Madame Delfour-Borderie and managed by the team at Jean-Pierre Moueix. Mis en bouteille a Pomerol 13.5% purchased for $39.99 at Bottle Barn
Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Margaux 2005 The brett is in bloom on this wine, with an expression of the horse blanket and the barn. In the mouth it is chalky and the horse blanket carries on with Old World sensibility. Sunday, 2 days later: I have been having second thoughts about the way I put this on Friday. I don’t mean to imply that the brett is out of hand or to the level of what I would consider a flaw. Rather it is obvious, the brett is not somehow subsumed in a descriptor of leather – it is more noticeable and many consumers would like to know this before purchasing a bottle for a price north of $60 US.
The property is planted to 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Carmenere. The grapes behind this vintage are 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc. The property is owned by the Lurton family, managed by Henri Lurton. Mis en bouteille in Cantenac 13% purchased for $67.99 at Bottle Barn
Chateau Duhart-Milon, Pauillac 2005 The nose of this Pauillac combines chocolate, leather and black fruit, in a complex mix. In the mouth the wine is structured, strutting its acidity along with ripe, developed tannins. There is a nice density to this wine as well, providing lots of flavor over the entire palate. The wine is approachable now but would certainly benefit from some time in the cellar.
The property is planted to 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. Proprietaire Eric de Rothschild. Directeur Charles Chevallier. Mis en bouteille in Pauillac 13% purchased for $63.99 at Bottle Barn