Margaux 2005

Another celestial effort from Paul Pontallier and Corinne Mentzelopoulus, the 2005 Margaux, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, boasts a dense opaque blue/purple color as well as an extraordinary bouquet of spring flowers, blueberries, black raspberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and, despite its having spent two years in 100% new wood, only a subtle touch of toasty oak. Although full-bodied, the wine seems light on its feet because of the silky tannins as well as the great gravel terroir from which it comes. Beautiful purity, length, and nobility define this modern day classic. Is it better than the 2000, 1996, 1990, or some of the vintages from the decade of the eighties? Who knows, but it is unquestionably one of the all-time great wines made at Chateau Margaux. This estate has produced only exceptional wines over the last three decades. The seamlessness of the 2005 suggests it will perform well early, but it should last for a half century or more. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2050+.

Score: 98 Robert Parker, Wine Advocate Maturity: 2013-2050

Very deep, polished purplish crimson right out to the rim. Wonderful lift on top of the amazing depth and richness of the fruit. Great, almost marine, freshness. Opulent is not quite the word because this is not rich and flashy - it’s more quintessential Margaux than that - so lifted and truly airborne. Great, great harmony. Truly LOVELY on the nose and then follows this up on the palate - just gorgeous. You really could swallow this with enormous pleasure already because the tannins are so ripe. Wonderfully neat finish. So fresh and refreshing. No heat on the finish. Paul Pontpallier, referring to the level of phenolics, describes this as ‘the densest Margaux ever - even more than 2003’. Thirteen per cent alcohol. Very very Cabernet and very fine. Just eight per cent Merlot. Plus six per cent Petit Verdot. Very clean and palate cleansing. Really lovely texture.

Score: 19 Jancis Robinson MW, Jancisrobinson.com Maturity: 2018-2035

We were very excited about tasting Margaux this year, particularly in light of Paul Pontallier’s comments to James Suckling that it is the greatest vintage that they have ever made. This is not the first time we have heard this as Margaux is a wine that demands superlatives... But the 2005 did not disappoint and draws comparisons with the 1928 and 1947 and 2000 vintages. The Cabernet was "out of this world" resulting in a higher proportion in the blend than is typical - 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 7% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc. The 2005 displays very lifted and complex aromatics of violets, perfume and gentle spice. Ethereally beautiful. On the palate it is mouthfilling and dense with gorgeous texture and layer upon layer of pure wild berry fruit, notes of Darjeeling and a warm rich biscuity character. There is amazing energy and vibrancy and perfect balance. Very, very long; pure harmony on the finish and exceptionally refined and well-delineated. It is clear that Margaux 2005 is one of the elite.

Score: - Albany Vintners