2005 Clos des Lambrays
By Domaine des Lambrays
2005 Clos des Lambrays from Domaine des Lambrays, Burgundy, France
The esteemed 2005 vintage in Burgundy was an extraordinary year that brought optimum conditions favouring a near-universal level of quality, and the 2005 Clos des Lambrays from Domaine des Lambrays particularly reflects this auspicious alignment of climate and craftsmanship.
A Resplendent Vintage with Investment Merit
In the realm of fine wine investments, pedigree and providence reign supreme, and the storied tapestry of Domaine des Lambrays weaves together an enchanting narrative of terroir-driven excellence. Weather patterns for the year 2005 were an enophile's dream, ensuring perfect ripeness and pronounced aromatic complexity. Advantaged by extended autumn sunshine and diurnal temperature variations, the roots delved deeply into the mineral-rich soils to endow upon the esteemed grapes a sumptuous array of flavours and textures.
Anatomy of Excellence: The Essence of 2005
The 2005 Clos des Lambrays is an object lesson in poise and elegance, marked by its saturated ruby colour with just a whisper of evolution at the rim. Its bouquet unfolds with grace, extending notes of crushed raspberries, black cherries, and an earthy undertone spiced with hints of clove and anise. A plethora of tertiary nuances begins to peek through after years of meticulous cellaring—truffle, game, and a subtle kiss of oak integrate seamlessly into its profile.
The palate is both opulent and structured; a velveteen texture housing a rich confluence of ripe tannins that promises further evolution. Dark fruit unfurls alongside supple leather and faintly smoky notes, leading to a persistent finish that manifests as a testament to the longevity bestowed by this triumphant year in Burgundy.
A confluence of structured complexity and poised maturity makes the 2005 Clos des Lambrays from Domaine des Lambrays a distinguished contender within one's investment portfolio. Our sensory journey reminds us that certain vintages captivate not only with their present allure but also promise an enduring legacy as they recline gracefully into their future years. This is one such wine that whispers the potential bound within bottles hailing from extraordinary years—a narrative that unfolds deliciously in each taste.
Market price (USD)
$4,120.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
260
Scores and tasting notes
Served from magnum, the 2005 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru offers up a youthfully reserved bouquet of raspberries, cassis, creamy new oak and espresso roast. On the palate, the wine is beginning to unwind, as it's much less closed than it was when I last tasted it three years ago, displaying good concentration and depth at the core, a fine-grained tannic chassis and a long, generous finish. This ranks as the finest Clos des Lambrays between the 1970s and the 2010, and in a couple more years it will begin to drink in style.
William Kelley - The Wine Advocate, 28 December 2018