Beausejour Duffau 2005

St Emilion, Premier Grand Cru Classé B

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Tasting Notes

While no one will confuse the 2005 with this estate’s prodigious 1990, it is an outstanding effort from one of St.-Emilion’s finest terroirs. In terms of potential, the vineyard is exceeded only by Ausone, Pavie and Belair for micro-climate and exposition. A beautiful dark ruby/purple color is accompanied by an ethereal nose of blueberry liqueur, spring flowers, melted licorice, raspberries, and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied with good acidity, sweet but high tannin, a broad mouthfeel, and admirable elegance as well as freshness, this beauty should age easily for 25+ years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035.

Score: 91

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2015-2035 30 April 2008

Although I may have overrated this offering last year, I still believe it is the finest wine this estate has made since their utterly perfect 1990. This is a small (17.5 acres), but extraordinary terroir composed of pure clay and limestone. The powerful 2005 was monolithic and closed on the three occasions I tasted it, but it unquestionably possesses enormous potential. Beautiful blueberry, black raspberry, licorice, and floral notes are followed by a medium to full-bodied, super-rich St.-Emilion boasting gorgeous freshness as well as high levels of tannin. The latter component is more noticeable than it was last year, but my instincts suggest this a temporary stage and while this cuvee will need to be monitored, it appears to be a spectacular Bordeaux. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+.

Score: 92 - 94

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2015-2030 30 April 2007

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.

Score: 94 - 96

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 30 April 2006

Fabulous aromas of blackberry, licorice and flowers. Wonderful nose. Full-bodied, with racy tannins and a long finish. This is powerful and rich. This is very long and velvety. Gorgeous. The winemaker here thinks it could match the great 1990 and 1989-91. Almost classic quality

Score: 92 - 94

James Suckling, Wine Spectator 01 January 1900