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.

(85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc; tasted at the end of the malolactic fermentation) Good bright medium ruby. Sexy, superripe aromas of raspberry, smoked meat, mocha, chocolate and resiny oak. Then explosively fruity in the mouth, offering great sucrosite leavened by racy acidity. The alcohol is close to 15% but the impression is of brilliant black raspberry and dark cherry fruit and great energy. Finishes with very broad tannins and strong chocolate and coffee notes. Utterly distinctive wine.