2005 d'Armailhac, Pauillac
SKU #1039234
92 points
Wine & Spirits
Located in the north of Pauillac, between Mouton and Pontet-Canet, this 123-acre estate is also part of G.F.A. Baronne Philippine de Rothschild. The aroma balances meaty fruit and mineral scents, and while the pungent red fruit is always there, the tannins seem to increase their intensity with air. They cover the pure black cherry flavor like a powerful skin, deep and plush with an iron-knuckle punch. The tannins don't go away, but their inner velvet eventually wins out. This has improved significantly since the en primeur tastings and will continue to evolve for ten to 15 years in the bottle.
(10/2008)
90 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
This powerful, tannic, structured effort from Mouton-Rothschild’s stable is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by an earthy nose dominated by black currants and toasty, smoky oak. Medium to full-bodied with relatively high tannin, decent acidity, and a fine finish, it should be at its best between 2014-2030.
(4/2008)
90 points
Wine Enthusiast
A big, sweet, soft wine, with attractive ripe blackberry fruits. It’s lively, smoky and licorice flavored, with delicious fresh acidity to finish.
(6/2008)
90 points
Wine Spectator
Exhibits blackberry, currant and licorice on the nose. Full and velvety, with plenty of good fruit. A balanced, fruity red. Best after 2012.
(3/2008)
Jancis Robinson
Very dark and toasty on the nose then lovely flesh and freshness. Great balance and real delicacy too. A subtle wine. Well done! 18/20 points.
(7/2009)
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Bright ruby-red. Blueberry, chocolate and leather on the nose, which suggests a wider range of ripeness than the 2006. Unusually sweet and lush for this wine but in a youthfully sullen stage, hinting at sexy oak tones and some leafy high notes. Densely packed but tight and tannic today, with its structure dominating. This needs patience.
(6/2008)
