2005 Pichon-Longueville Baron (Pauillac)

As usual, this superb Pauillac possesses an inky/blue/black color in addition to a big, sweet nose of graphite, charcoal, burning embers, black currant liqueur, and toasty vanillin from new oak casks. Full-bodied with high but sweet, well-integrated tannins, the 2005 Pichon Baron is more backward than the blockbuster 2003 or prodigious 2000. Nevertheless, it is a superb effort whose power, length, and tannic structure suggest it should be at its peak between 2015-2035. 94 points

Bright ruby. Aromas of cassis, minerals and menthol suggest a powerful wine. Then rich, chewy and dense, with compelling fullness and sweetness of fruit but also lovely verve to the flavors of black cherry, mint, flowers and licorice. Finishes with outstanding palate coverage and persistence and a captivating balance of fresh acids and chewy, ripe tannins. Wait until 2013. 92-95 points