BV RESERVE GEORGES de LATOUR CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 (MAG)

"Blended of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve Georges de Latour was aged for 20 months in 90% French oak, 8% American oak and 2% “European oak,” 80% of which was new. Medium to deep garnet colored, the nose is quite closed to begin, then with coaxing, it reveals subtle crème de cassis, chocolate-covered cherries and blueberry compote notions with suggestions of espresso, lilacs, licorice and cedar chest. Full-bodied (14.8% alcohol) and built like a brick house, the palate is concentrated and densely laden with black fruit preserves and savory layers giving way to earth and floral fireworks on the long finish." 95 Pts. - Wine Advocate - LPB "Once the proudest name in the Napa Valley, Beaulieu's flagship wine has reclaimed its place atop the Cabernet rankings over the past decade or so. And while it now has plenty of company at those august levels, there is still some-thing very comforting to see an old favorite emerge when we pull the covers off the top wines in our tastings. This year's version is full of black cherry and curranty fruit, adds in touches of roasted vanilla bean and milk chocolate and is suitably ripe without any turn to excess. Supple in feel yet sufficiently tannic for aging, this vintage is a Napa Valley classic." 92 Pts. - Connoiseurs Guide