2005 Le Montrachet
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Tasting notes
The 2005 Le Montrachet from Bouchard Pere & Fils is drinking absolutely beautifully at present. The nose is actually quite reticent at first, but its delineation cannot be denied and it gathers momentum with aeration, revealing its hidden mineralité. The palate is very focused and poised, the acidity totally synched with the mineral-drenched fruit. It moves toward a succinct almond and custard-creme finish that avoids any blowsiness. Some look down upon Montrachet from Bouchard - that is their loss - because this is a fantastic example of a grand cru that does not necessarily always deliver.
Critic scores
Average Score
Allen Meadows, Burghound
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
Pale color. Steely wet stone, pear, apple and nutmeg on the nose, with floral and spice nuances adding complexity. Large-scaled, dense and oily, with deep pineapple and nut flavors framed by penetrating acidity. Finishes with outstanding palate-saturating length. Not quite as impressive as the Chevalier-Montrachet but this is built for slow development in bottle.
As it should be, this is the best wine here with its compelling nose of acacia blossom, distinctly ripe orchard fruit and gorgeously exotic spice notes that seem to keep changing every few minutes followed by classy, pure and fine flavors that possess both seriously impressive power and wonderful elegance, which continues onto the multi-dimensional, dense, long and palate staining finish. This is very much of a baby and will need plenty of time to really open up so be prepared to wait. Note that there was a trace of reduction on the nose so it would be best to decant this for 30 minutes first if curiosity gets the best of you!
Superripe nose offers peach nectar and minerals, plus a toasty oak component that follows onto the palate. Fat, lush and broad, with outstanding volume and considerable power. But this very young, dry, backward wine is not yet expressing itself. Finishes with almost painful length and a distinctly tannic impression.
About the producer
Bouchard Père & Fils is one of Burgundy’s oldest and most established wine producers. Founded in 1731 by Michel Bouchard, it is the largest vineyard owner in the Côte d’Or with 130 hectares of vines.