Somewhat similar to the 2010 vintage in terms of tannic power, but more relaxed, revealing burgeoning tertiary, leafy tobacco elegance, making it more enjoyable to drink today. A powerful wine with impressive tannin. (PK)

A glorious wine from Domaine de Chevalier, this 2005 reveals notes of graphite, subtle charcoal, blackberry and blackcurrant fruit, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, silky tannins, and a long, multi-dimensional finish. This is a killer effort from the Bernard family, who own this famous terroir in Pessac-Léognan. Drink it over the next 20-30 years. (RP)

The 2005 Domaine de Chevalier is in a gorgeous spot in which it has developed striking aromatic nuance while retaining quite a bit of fruit. Leather, smoke, tobacco, gravel, dried herbs and spice lend quite a bit of complexity. Bold and savory in the glass, with tons of energy, the 2005 will drink well for another decade-plus, maybe more. I very much like the energy here. The red often flies under the radar, but there is no mistaking the beauty and pedigree here. Several recent bottles have been terrific. Olivier Bernard and his family turned out a regal 2005. (AG)