Chateau d'Armailhac 2005 - 5 Litre Bottle

Chateau d'Armailhac, classified as a Fifth Growth in 1855, is a close neighbour of Chateau Mouton Rothschild. Its 123 acres of vines surrounding the beautiful grounds of the main house are planted with the typical varieties of the region: 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. The estate, in the d'Armailhacq family since the 18th century and named Chateau Mouton d'Armailhac after them, was acquired by Baron Philippe in 1933. Between 1956 and 1989, it was called Chateau Mouton Baron Phillipe successively, then Chateau Mouton Baronne Phillipe. In 1989, Baroness Phillipine de Rothschild restored part of its original identity, renaming it Chateau d'Armailhac. The wine, aged in oak casks, combines finesse and elegance with powerful, well-structured tannins.

93 Points -  Robert Parker

I think the 2005 d'Armailhac may turn out even better than its stablemate, Clerc-Milon. This combination of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot achieved 13.3% alcohol. Revealing lovely creme de cassis-like notes, a beautiful texture, brightness, and sweet tannin, it is an impressively endowed, medium to full-bodied, relatively approachable 2005. However, it will undoubtedly display more tannin after bottling—anticipated maturity: 2010-2020+.

91 Points - James Suckling

Aromas of blackberries and ripe fruit with hints of cigar box. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a rich and mature finish. A balanced and rich wine. It may be better than 2003 and 2000.