2005 Palmer, Margaux (Previously $400+)
SKU #1044500
97
points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
This spectacular offering should continue to improve, and may merit an even higher score after additional aging. Stunningly rich and powerful, the dark purple-tinged 2005 Palmer is a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 7% Petit Verdot. Aromas of incense, burning embers, black currants, plums, licorice, and flowers are followed by a full-bodied Margaux with more weight and power even than its nearby first-growth rival, Chateau Margaux. The abundant acidity and tannins are beautifully coated by the wine’s exceptional fruit extract and overall harmony and richness. It is so concentrated that one is hard pressed to find even a hint of new oak. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2045+
(4/ 2008)
96
points
Wine Enthusiast
Aromas of black tar, chocolate and berries lead to a wine that is so effortlessly delicious that it’s easy to forget the power the Merlot gives it. The center is round, but dark, filled with sweetness; the outer layers are full of red jelly and toast. There are tannins, but they, too, are sweet.
(6/ 2008)
95
points
Wine Spectator
Dark in color, with intense aromas of crushed berry, toasty oak and hints of raisin, turning to fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with a big, juicy, velvety texture and a long aftertaste of coffee, coconut and berry. This is powerful and muscular for Palmer. Best after 2012.
(3/ 2008)
94
points
James Suckling
What a nose of milk chocolate, with raspberries and hints of plums and flowers. A wonderful nose. Full-bodied, with super velvety tannins and a chocolate, nut, and dark fruit character on the palate. The fine tannins and great balance make you want to drink this, but you should wait and let it all out. Pull the cork in 2016.
(5/ 2012)
94
points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Good deep red-ruby. Deep, brooding aromas of blackberry, kirsch and chocolate mint, with a distinctly roasted, jammy character showing today. Compellingly sweet and explosive on the palate, with great fat to the flavors of plum, mulberry, coffee and mocha; like a cocktail of jammy fruits. This is downright massive, not to say decadent, for Palmer-at 14% alcohol the highest ever recorded here. A pure liquid confection.
(6/ 2008)
Jancis Robinson
More of everything than in 2000. But balance more important than numbers. 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot. Deep black cherry colour, sweet smoky cassis nose and a touch of mint. Not open yet. Lots of sweet spice but not especially oaky until you get to the palate, where it is more marked. Rich and dense and firm with a strong grip but fully ripe in every way. Muscular but smooth, rippling muscles under smooth skin. Dark and concentrated on the palate. Chocolate texture and milk chocolate sweetness but somehow not sweet. Roasted aromas. and a fine fresh long finish. Marked finesse and length and aromatic on the mid palate. 18.5/20 points.
(9/ 2009)
K&L Notes
Barrel tasting notes - Otherworldly wine. 53% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot and 7% petit verdot. A bit more cab than is in the vineyard. Black purple color. Deep concentrated nose of toasted oak, black cherry and chocolate. Very sweet, forward ripe fruit entry with hints of framboise underneath. Fabulous structure and silky, velvety mouthfeel-you want to drink it right now. Tannins are round and covered by the massive fruit content. The finish lingers on the palate. *** (Clyde Beffa, K&L Bordeaux buyer)