2005 Chateau Sanctus Saint-Emilion Grand Cru

(93 Points)  --  (Wine Advocate)

From a special 7.5 acre parcel culled from the Bienfaisance vineyard, this 1,000-case cuvee is dominated by its Merlot component (the blend also includes some Cabernet Franc). As are most of St.-Emilion's garigiste wines, it is given a Burgundian-like treatment of pre-fermentation cold maceration, malolactic in barrel, aging on its lees, and little clarification, all designed to accentuate the terroir, and enhance the wine's texture and perfume. The stunningly perfumed 2005 offers up notions of toast, black cherry jam, blackberries, espresso roast, white chocolate, and juicy meat. It is full-bodied as well as opulent for the vintage, with a gorgeous texture, and a long, 35+ second finish.