2005 d'Aiguilhe, Côtes de Castillon

SKU #1037224 92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

This huge, historic property, owned by Stephan von Neipperg, appears to have produced their finest wine to date. The dense purple-tinged 2005 offers up notes of creme de cassis, charcoal, camphor, and espresso roast. A sleeper of the vintage, it is a full-bodied, layered, super-concentrated, smooth as silk blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Enjoy this superb bargain-priced claret over the next 8-10 years. (8/ 2008)

92 points Wine Spectator

Displays gorgeous aromas of vanilla bean, mineral, raspberry and blackberry. Full-bodied, with very round, soft tannins and a long, rich, fruity finish. Beautiful. Best after 2016. (3/ 2008)

91 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Bright ruby-red. Almost candied sweetness to the aromas and flavors of pungent black fruits and minerals. Then wonderfully ripe, full and sweet in the mouth, with captivating freshness. The tannins arrive very late, allowing the fruit to expand and linger. "We need great ripeness on this chalky site or else we get bad tannins," noted von Neipperg. One of the great values of the vintage: this opened at 13 euros. (6/ 2008)

K&L Notes

*+ 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Bright and effusive wine with a lovely palate entry. Blackberry juice flavors. Plenty of structure. (Clyde Beffa, K&L Bordeaux Buyer)