Published in June 2008

Wines, Spirits and Beers published in the June 2008 issue of Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

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Château Latour 2005 Red (Pauillac)

Cellar Selection

Price $2000

A great wine, the summation of a great vintage in Bordeaux. The core of richness, the dense, bone-dry tannins, the black currants, red berries and black plum skins are the elements, but it’s the way they have been integrated that makes this such an impressive wine. There is great elegance as well, a fabulous counterpoint to such power. Cellar for at least 15 years… — R.V. (6/1/2008)

100

points

Château Pétrus 2005 Red (Pomerol)

Price $6000

As so often, Pétrus has the ability to charm and impress, to seduce and overwhelm. This 2005, one of the greatest vintages from this great chateau, is massive and concentrated, with flavors of ripe black figs, chocolate and dark plums. Put that all together and the result is the utmost deliciousness, freshness and elegance. A major wine. Imported by Etablissements… — R.V. (6/1/2008)

points

Château Lafite Rothschild 2005 Red (Pauillac)

Cellar Selection

Price $1200

Initially dense, almost black enough to be attacked with a knife. But then it becomes apparent that this is a beautifully integrated, balanced wine, bringing together power, with the hallmark Lafite style and poise. In the end, you have a wine that promises an impressive aging potential along with delicious black currant fruits, acidity and a layer of striking… — R.V. (6/1/2008)

points

Château Margaux 2005 Red (Margaux)

For a Château Margaux, this is an especially rich wine. The dense fruit, superripe but not overpowering, and the blackberry jam flavors show the richness of the year. There is wood alongside the juiciness and sweet tannins. Of course, it will age, but it’s so delicious to drink now. — R.V. (6/1/2008)

points

Château Haut-Brion 2005 Red (Pessac-Léognan)

Cellar Selection

Price $1500

A big, virile wine, dominated by dark and firm tannins. The structure comes from powerful black fruits, the wood only showing as dry edge to the tannins. It’s firm, obviously destined for long aging, with initial blackberry fruits powering through the density. A stupendous wine that will last many decades. — R.V. (6/1/2008)

points

Château Léoville-Barton 2005 Red (Saint-Julien)

Cellar Selection

Price $150

Power and elegance merge effortlessly in this superb wine. Its pure black currant fruit is tightly coiled, supported by just the right amount of firm tannins. Great aging potential. A triumph. — R.V. (6/1/2008)

points

Colgin 2005 IX Estate Red Wine (Napa Valley)

Cellar Selection

Price $275

This Bordeaux blend is similar to Colgin’s Cariad bottling, but the grapes are from the winery’s estate vineyard, high up on Pritchard Hill, ranging in elevation from 1,100–1,300 feet. A distinct note of violets and Provençal herbs erupts from the glass, supported by fruiter ones of cherries, red and black currants, dark chocolate, caramelized oak and cedar. What… — S.H. (6/1/2008)

points

Château Cos d'Estournel 2005 Red (Saint-Estèphe)

Price $250

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. — R.V. (6/1/2008)

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