"Aromas and flavors of cherry and milk chocolate. Soft and easygoing, with a medium-to-full body and clean fruit. Best after 2008. 5,000 cases made." (WS)
"It’s amazing how good this wine has become since the property was sold by the Jean-Pierre Moueix firm to Jean Halley. The outstanding, sexy, full-bodied 2005 is a 5,000-case blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. With beautiful purity, symmetry, and power as well as elegance, it is a fresh, full, soft Fronsac with sensational concentration and depth. It can be drunk now or cellared for 10-15 years." (WA)
ANOTHER ’05 BORDEAUX WINNER—THIS TIME FROM FRONSAC at $25.95
2005 CHATEAU LA DAUPHINE Appl. FRONSAC Ctl.
I’ve tasted many vintages from this Fronsac Chateau and though there were some pleasant ones, none were memorable or worth recommending. That is until, I tried the 2005 vintage La Dauphine with my Saturday wine group where it was quit a hit and personally it was the first La Dauphine I have every really enjoyed or recommended. I can see why Robert Parker rated the wine a 90/91. Speaking of Robert Parker, I can no better in describing this wine then quoting him, when he writes, “
It’s amazing how good this wine has become since the Jean-Pierre Moueix firm sold the property to Jean Halley. The outstanding, sexy, full-bodied 2005 is a 5,000-case blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. With beautiful purity, symmetry, and power as well as elegance, it is a fresh, full, soft Fronsac with sensational concentration and depth. It can be drunk now or cellared for 10-15 years.”
Chateau La Dauphine is from the right bank Fronsac area that adjoins St. Emilion and Pomerol. In the 19th century, in reputation and price Fronsac were about equal to the now far better known appellation of Pomerol. La Dauphines is around 25 acres and the new owners have increased the percent of Merlot planted in the vineyard.
Regular price is now around $33 plus, with L. A. Wine Company having it on special for under $26.00.
RATING: 91
PRICE: $25.95 **bargain
(Martin's Guide to Wine Bargains) |
