2005 Chimney Rock Elevage
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Tasting notes
(14.4% alcohol): Medium ruby. Sweet oak tones to the aromas of black cherry, milk chocolate, mocha and truffle. At once savory and sweet in the mouth, showing good fat to its inviting, if oaky, flavors of milk chocolate, herbs and earth complicated by fresh herbs. The pliant finish displays sweet tannins, with the chocolatey Merlot component giving the wine good accessibility.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Their blend, the 2005 Proprietary Red Elevage, which is obviously composed of Bordeaux varietals such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot (I don’t think any Cabernet Franc is in it), has a slightly denser ruby/purple color. The aromatics of blue, red and black fruits, forest floor and spring flowers, excellent richness, purity and texture in this medium to full-bodied wine are impressive. Soft tannins and silkiness typify Stags Leap, but there is a complexity and richness as well. Kudos to the Terlato family who own this winery and have certainly improved the quality dramatically. This wine should drink well for another 10-15 years.