Right-bank 2005s are considered the best since….1961 or so. I bought three bottles at Systembolaget (beställningssortimentet) of Château Sainte-Colombe on chance for 159 SEK each. Extraordinary value. This is from the Côtes de Castillon appellation, which borders on the more distinguished an well-known Saint-Emilion appellation.
Owned by Gérard Perse, who also owns the famous Saint-Emilion property Chateau Pavie. I don’t know how well Sainte-Colombe performed in 2005, but this is a very nice wine. 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Black currants, cedar, chocolate and herbs on the nose. Doubtlessly a modern Bordeaux in the best sense; fruit-driven but still not jammy. Certainly not a fruit-bomb. Smooth and silky on the palate. Nice and well-integrated tannins. Medium to full-bodied. A small but pleasant acridity appears immediately before the surprisingly long finish. Strongly recommended. 88p.
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