Chateau Margaux is a famous wine estate in the Medoc region, which along with Lafite, Latour and Haut Brion, was rated a First Growth in the original 1855 Bordeaux Classification. It covers 262 hectares, of which 82 hectares are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, and 12 hectares to Sauvignon Blanc.

In the 12th century, the property was called “La Mothe de Margaux” (the Margaux mound) and by the 16th century, wine was being produced at the estate. In 1705, the London Gazette advertised the first auction of 230 barrels of “Margose” and the 1771 vintage was the first “claret” to appear in a Christie’s catalogue. Indeed one of America’s Founding Fathers and vintner in his own right, Thomas Jefferson, visited this great estate in the late 18th century and declared it to be a vineyard of “first quality”. When Bertrand Douat, Marquis de la Colonilla, acquired the estate, he built the chateau that is often nicknamed the “Versailles of the Medoc”, a rare example of the neo-palladian style in France.

Andre Mentzelopoulos purchased the property in 1977, investing heavily in the estate and a program of improvements. Since his death in 1980, the property has been run by his daughter Corinne who continued his work in restoring the chateau to its former glory.

Since the 17th Century, the grand vin of Chateau Margaux has been recognized as one of the greatest wines in the entire world. It owes its unique qualities to the genius of its terroir as well as to the passionate work of a succession of generations. It’s a remarkable wine that comes from a combination of characteristics that are only rarely found: finesse, elegance, complexity, density, intensity, length and freshness. Although its tannic concentration may be exceptional, it’s rare to detect astringency.

The great vintages are distinguished by their formidable ability to move us, while the lesser vintages give pleasure to wine enthusiasts. Chateau Margaux has an extraordinary ability to evolve with age, developing finesse, aromatic aromatic complexity, and a remarkable presence on the palate.

The 2005 Chateau Margaux is a Bordeaux Blend from the Margaux sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine is a true representation of excellence and sophistication. With a deep, dark purple color, it immediately captivates the eye and hints at the complexity that awaits.

On the nose, the aromas are rich, ripe, and full. Scents of raspberry, cinnamon, clove, and cucumber mingle with subtle hints of green plum. As you take your first sip, the palate is instantly enveloped by the flavors of chocolate-covered cherries. The wine is full-bodied and velvety, with soft and sweet tannins that make it approachable even at this early stage. Fresh notes of raspberry and blackberry dance on the tongue, while the underlying structure promises a beautiful aging potential.

Renowned wine critic Mike Supple of JJ Buckley describes this wine as possibly the Best Wine of 2005. He praises its incredible balance and round, well-integrated tannins. Wine Spectator, another respected publication, awarded it a score of 97, noting its tightness and potential for aging. They describe whispers of alder, bay leaf, tobacco, and singed sandalwood aromas, along with a concentrated core of cassis and blackberry fruit. The long finish reveals echoes of dark earth and iron, leaving a lasting impression.

Neal Martin's Wine Journal gives this vintage a nearly perfect score of 99. He highlights its brilliant precision, amazing focus, and mineral-soaked fruit. The palate is effortless, with sumptuous ripe tannins, perfect acidity, and layers of sensual ripe red fruit. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also praises this wine, giving it a score of 98+. They describe a lavish fragrance of blackcurrants, velvety new saddle leather, spring flowers, and spice. The wood is already concealed beneath the cascade of fruit, and the wine has a finish of 45+ seconds.

James Suckling, a well-known wine critic, awards the 2005 Chateau Margaux a perfect score of 100. He notes the wine's concentration and purity of fruit, with flavors of forest berries and wild raspberries. He advises waiting until after 2015 to fully enjoy this sleeping beauty.

Overall, this vintage of Chateau Margaux is a true masterpiece. Its richness, density, and balanced structure make it a wine to be savored and cherished. Whether enjoyed now or aged for several more years, it promises to deliver an unforgettable experience with every sip.