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“ Bordeaux’s Classic 2005 Vintage”
If we start talking about the great wine regions of the world one word that will always come up on top of the list is Bordeaux. This southwest region of France is home to some of the most prestigious and highly sought after bottles of wine all across the globe. Names like Lafite, Latour, Petrus, Margaux ,Haut Brion and Lafite Rothchild command astronomical prices upon release and at auction houses. Some of these wines will age gracefully for decades and only increase in value like a fine work of art. A Picasso in a bottle. The 2005 vintage in Bordeaux is considered as one of the greatest modern day vintages and has been compared to the 1961 vintage. Everything fell in line with this vintage. A perfect growing season with sunny days and cool nights made the grapes fully ripe with excellent acidity. The grapes also had thick skins which contributed to just the right amount of tannins and fabulous color. Although the 2005 vintage is the most expensive in history there are still some incredible values on the shelf. When shopping for a “05” Bordeaux in a price range that won’t break the bank one must look for Chateau’s that might not be as famous and from areas a little less known. For example Montagne Saint-Emilion sits between the two world famous areas of Saint-Emilion and Pomerol. You can find these wines for a fraction of the cost and the quality is usually superb. Also there are a lot of fine Cru Bourgeois and Bordeaux Superieur wines that are incredible from this vintage and can be picked up for under 35 bucks. If you enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot than a Bordeaux might be something for you to try. These wines tend to be a little more earthy than the wines of California and Australia and sometimes a tad lighter. Of course like all Old World wines Bordeaux’s are great food wines and will shine with a nice chuck of aged cheddar or a fine steak. Here are some 2005 Bordeaux’s that are drinking great now and will even be better in a couple more years. Remember that a Bordeaux from a superb vintage will drink fabulous early on and years to come.
Chateau Rozier Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2005 – Small family owned estate with 45 year old vines. The wine is incredible for the price and is comprised of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. 12 months in oak barriques rounds out this wine and is a must try for lovers of the Right Bank.
Chateau Aney Cru Bourgeois Haut – Medoc 2005 – This wine is from the Left Bank and is comprised of more Cabernet Sauvignon. The texture is silky and cherry and red licorice shine through. Some dark fruits also come out on the finish. Great bottle for under 40 bucks.
Chateau de Camarsac Bordeaux Superieur 2005 – The wine has Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec in it. The property is owned by the famous Lucien Lurton which guarantees good quality. Nice aromas of truffles and flavors of blackberry sing on the palate. Great bang for the buck!
Chateau La Fleur Plaisance Grand Vin De Bordeaux Montagne St. Emilion – This small 29 acre estate is situated between Pomerol and St. Emilion. The wine is 80% merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Fabulous for the money.
Happy Sipping
Jeff Anderson
Sommelier
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