Chateau Larcis-Ducasse (3 Liter Bottle) 2005

Professional Ratings

• 98 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  This great terroir on the Cote Pavie has long been recognized as one of the most privileged spots in St.-Emilion, but it was not until the wunderkind duo of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt took over in 2002 that the wine finally began to live up to its potential. Old timers who remember the 1945 Larcis Ducasse will attest to how great this cuvee can be. Sadly, fewer than 3,000 cases were produced of the 2005, a blend of 78% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Franc with a small dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Yields were a modest 27 hectoliters per hectare. This stunning effort reveals one of the most extraordinary aromatic displays of the vintage, offering up notes of sweet roasted herbs, jus du viande, black olives, espresso roast, creme de cassis, and kirsch liqueur. Extremely full-bodied, opulent, and lavishly textured with plush tannin as well as an ethereal elegance, a sublime personality, glorious sweet purity, and a layered texture, this amazing St.-Emilion is destined to become a legend.
• 95 Wine Spectator
  This is very grapey, with plenty of crushed blackberry and vanilla undertones, and floral as well. Full-bodied, soft and silky. Gushes with fruit. Hard not to drink this now, but give it some time. The fruit is amazing. Such purity. Best after 2014.
• 94 Connoisseurs' Guide
  While its Grand Cru classification places it in only the third tier of the St. Emilion hierarchy of quality, this intense, wonderfully rich wine is packed with sweet, well-ripened fruit and does a fine job at managing 2005 tannin. So succulent and fleshy that it could be drunk alongside juicy beef dishes right now, it has all the pieces in place to improve for at least another ten years.