2005 Tertre Roteboeuf

Tasted single blind at Southwold. This showed even better than the bottle Francois opened in September. Tasted blind, it has a wily seductive, Merlot-driven nose that is just so pure with scents of violets and blueberries. The palate makes a grand entrance, real depth and immense concentration here, superb acidity, spicy dark cherry, cranberry, raspberry fruit laced with espresso and Asian spice. Seamless tannins on the finish. Iron fist/velvet glove blah…blah…blah…Drink 2012-2035. Tasted January 2009. Neal Martin, eRobertParker.com

Slightly green top note but lovely luscious sweet fruit on the palate – really racy and gorgeous though a little more forward than one might think ideal. Not heavy. Clean, refreshing finish, though not exceptionally persistent. Jancis Robinson, jancisrobinson.com

A sensational effort, Tertre Roteboeuf’s 2005, along with the 2000, is one of the most profound wines made by Francois Mitjavile. A dense ruby/purple color is followed by a stunning perfume of sweet black currants, jammy cherries, licorice, and spice. Full-bodied and opulent with high, but remarkably sweet, velvety tannins as well as a stunning texture and a finish that lasts nearly a minute, this prodigious St.-Emilion should be drinkable in 3-4 years, and last for two decades or more. Kudos to the proprietor. Apr 2008, www.robertparker.com