2005 Chateau Berliquet Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru

Full ruby-red. Perfumed, pure aromas of blackberry, licorice and bitter chocolate. Suave on entry, then pure, scented and light on its feet. Not at all a big boy in the context of the year, but this boasts lovely blackberry and floral intensity and striking minerality. Finishes firmly tannic and lively, with good licorice lift. This is better than I originally rated it, but still quite tightly wound. The '06 seems softer and drier by comparison.

Resiny characteristics combined with notions of black cherries, cassis, herbs, and new oak emerge from this deep ruby/purple-colored 2005. Medium to full-bodied, moderately tannic, and impeccably well-made, consumption during its first 10-15 years of life is recommended.

Perfumed cassis, sweetly perfumed dark fruit on the nose though this palate is a little disappointing after that first impression. Quite elegant and reserved and lacking concentration at the end. (JH)