Château la Fleur de Boüard Red Bordeaux Blend Lalande de Pomerol le Plus 2005

(Barrel tasting) Aromas of blackberry and dark chocolate follow through to medium- to full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a long finish. Very well done.

Good bright medium ruby. Pungently fresh aromas of cassis and licorice. Sweet, rich and fruit-driven, with cassis and black plum dominating. A bit youthfully undifferentiated today but not at all flat. Finishes with big, chewy tannins and sexy notes of dark chocolate, brown spices, mint and licorice.

From the personal estate of one of Bordeaux's most influential tastemakers, Hubert de Bouard, the 2005 La Fleur de Bouard is potentially one of the finest yet produced... and that's saying something given the consistent quality. A blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, its blue/black/purple color is accompanied by beautiful aromas of charcoal, melted licorice, espresso, blackberries, and blue fruits. Deep, opulent, and full-bodied, with sweet tannin as well as a powerful finish, it will require consumption during its first 7-8 years of life.

The 2000 La Fleur de Bouard is impressive. This textured, rich, bigger than life Lalande de Pomerol exhibits a saturated opaque purple color as well as a gorgeous perfume of blackberries, cassis, toasty new oak, licorice, and a hint of tapenade. Expressive and sumptuous, with impeccable purity, this wine is brilliant. It will have 10-12 years of aging potential. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2013.

Amazing quality. Black color, with violet, crushed berry and tar. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a gorgeous, silky texture. Superlong. Excellent cuvée.

Impressive aromas of raw meat and fresh fruit, with hints of smoke. Full-bodied and very velvety, with a long, caressing finish and ripe fruit. Super. Serious wine for the money. Best after 2007.

Ruby red. Sexy, expressive aromas of black cherry and sweet oak. Big, broad, chewy and rich, with solid acidity giving life and shape to the black raspberry and licorice flavors. The tannins are sweet, but the wine finishes with solid structure. Very impresive Lalande de Pomerol wine.