Santa Rita Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

"Inky ruby. Explosively perfumed bouquet combines sexy red and dark berry compote, potpourri and smoky spices. Stains the palate with deep but energetic raspberry and blackcurrant flavors, betraying no rough edges and picking up exotic rose pastille and anise nuances on the back end. Manages to be both lush and energetic, and finishes with outstanding clarity and persistence. More vibrant than the outstanding 2004, with even more cellaring potential."

93 Points

International Wine Cellar

"From a vineyard planted in the early 1970's in Alto Jahuel, this is a classic Chilean cabernet. The 2005 vintage produced an exceptional Casa Real, with aromas of tobacco and rosemary that meld with the seductive, black fruit flavors. It's soft and warm, a meaty cabernet for steak."

93 Points

Wine & Spirits

"Very stout and rich, but nothing soft about this perfectly healthy, benchmark Chilean Cab. The nose pours forth with earth, licorice, balsamic notes and sly plum aromas, while the palate is cuddly but agile, with good balance and pure flavors of black fruits and chocolate. Drinkable now but agreeable through 2014."

92 Points

Wine Enthusiast

"The nose shows off aromas of pain grille, pencil lead, tar, licorice, and blackberry. In the mouth there is significant tannin that will mandate 6-8 years of cellaring. The wine has tons of fruit but whether it will come into balance remains to be seen. If it does, my score will seem conservative."

91 Points

The Wine Advocate

"A dark, brawny style, with coffee and bittersweet cocoa leading the way for black currant and braised fig fruit notes. There's a long, muscular, loam-filled finish. Drink now through 2011. 1,000 cases made."

90 Points

Wine Spectator