2005 Château Beauséjour Duffau

Description

92-94    James Suckling
“Fabulous aromas of blackberry, licorice and flowers. Wonderful nose. Full-bodied, with racy tannins and a long finish. This is powerful and rich. This is very long and velvety. Gorgeous. The winemaker here thinks it could match the great 1990. Almost classic quality.” (March 2006)

92    Neal Martin
“This is much better than my previous encounter when it was served blind. Even though it is surpassed by the 2009, the 2005 has a very introverted bouquet with baked black cherry, soy and a little marmalade. The palate is medium-bodied with a crisp red cherry and balsamic tinged entry. It has nice length but is very tight and unresponsive on the finish that shows a touch of hardness. On this occasion, the 2009 has the upper hand. Tasted December 2012.” (May 2013)

91    Robert Parker for Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“While no one will confuse the 2005 with this estate’s prodigious 1990, it is an outstanding effort from one of St.-Emilion’s finest terroirs. In terms of potential, the vineyard is exceeded only by Ausone, Pavie and Belair for micro-climate and exposition. A beautiful dark ruby/purple color is accompanied by an ethereal nose of blueberry liqueur, spring flowers, melted licorice, raspberries, and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied with good acidity, sweet but high tannin, a broad mouthfeel, and admirable elegance as well as freshness, this beauty should age easily for 25+ years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035” (April 2008)