2005 Clos Manou

The outstanding 2005 Clos Manou demonstrates just how deep and strong this vintage can be for overachievers from less prestigious terroirs. This blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest mostly Merlot and a small amount of Petit Verdot exhibits a dense ruby/purple color followed by a classic Medoc nose of cedarwood, black currants, fruitcake, tobacco, and menthol. Medium to full-bodied and ripe with good tannin, structure, purity, and depth, unlike many of these lower level offerings, it will benefit from 1-2 years of cellaring, and should drink well for a decade or more.

(a blend of 60% merlot, 30% cabernet sauvignon and 10% petit verdot planted at a density of 10,000 vines per hectare, from a vineyard in St. Christoly, just north of St. Estephe; 14% alcohol) Bright ruby. Crushed blackberry, flint and smoke on the nose, plus a whiff of stewed fruits. Superripe and lush in the mouth, with a restrained sweetness. This rather powerful, tannic wine reminded me of a ruby port.