Another 2005 that's drinking at point yet has plenty of life ahead of it, the 2005 Château Barde-Haut reveals a dense plum/purple hue as well as a mineral-laced bouquet of red and black fruits, dried flowers, truffly earth, and graphite. With medium to full-bodied richness, it has terrific mid-palate depth, a focused, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. I'd certainly be thrilled to have bottles in the cellar, and it will evolve gracefully for another 10-15 years, although there's no need to delay gratification at this point.

92+ Sylvie Garcin’s 2005 Barde-Haut comes from 42-plus acres of vineyard and is dominated by Merlot, with a good healthy dose of Cabernet Franc. It displays notes of chalk, crushed rock, blackcurrants and black cherries. It is a big, masculine style of wine from the Garcin family that has still not attained its plateau of maturity. In spite of the tannins, structure is not an issue with this wine, but it needs time to come around. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.

Deep ruby core fades to a paler rim. The nose is packed with notes of cedar mushroom star anise cassis blueberry cherry smoke clove vanilla oak and tobacco with a hint of white pepper. Full and rich on the palate with a creamy texture. The palate reflects the nose in addition to a healthy dose of fresh raspberry and mocha. Layered and complex individual elements stand out upon first pour but soon come together in a delicate balance. Enjoy with an assortments of nuts softer cheeses and hearty fare now through 2025.

The Château Barde-Haut 2005 has a clean, very perfumed bouquet with macerated black cherries and cassis scents, a subtle pastille aromas developing with time. The palate is medium-bodied with a sweet entry, smooth and sensual in texture but very closed on the finish that needs just a little more precision. Still, there is a pleasant salinity on the aftertaste, though it needs a couple more years in bottle.