The 2005 d'Armailhac is a Bordeaux Blend wine hailing from the esteemed Pauillac region of Bordeaux, France. With its deep ruby purple color that fades to ruby edges, this wine is visually captivating. On the nose, it delights with fantastic aromas of chocolate mint, floral notes, and red cherry. These fragrances are complemented by subtle hints of vanilla and toasty oak, adding depth and complexity to the bouquet.
On the palate, the 2005 d'Armailhac presents itself as soft, smooth, and supple. The round tannins and juicy spicy fruit create a harmonious and well-balanced experience. The wine's medium body makes it approachable and enjoyable, making it stand out among other Pauillac wines from the same vintage.
The finish is long and smooth, leaving a lingering taste of milk chocolate that is simply outstanding. This wine has received high praise from wine experts, with Mike Supple of JJ Buckley awarding it an impressive score of 95. He describes it as having a soft and supple texture, with a delightful combination of flavors.
Other critics, such as Neal Martin's Wine Journal and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, also rate the 2005 d'Armailhac highly, praising its typical d'Armailhac nose, well-balanced palate, and savory finish. Wine Enthusiast describes it as a big, sweet, and soft wine with attractive ripe blackberry fruits.
As the years go by, this wine continues to evolve and improve, as noted by Wine & Spirits. It suggests that the 2005 d'Armailhac will continue to develop and gain complexity with age, making it an excellent choice for cellaring.
Most recently, in 2022, Jane Anson and Jeff Leve have both reviewed this wine, with Anson awarding it a score of 93 and Leve a score of 92. Anson highlights the wine's wild strawberry notes, elegance, and harmonious nature, while Leve emphasizes its sweet dark currants, leafy herbs, and tobacco-packed charms.
Overall, the 2005 d'Armailhac is a wine that showcases the best qualities of a Pauillac Bordeaux Blend. With its exceptional aromas, velvety texture, and complex flavors, this wine is a true gem from the renowned d'Armailhac estate. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development, promising a delightful experience either way.