Very dark, blackish. Very lively Real attack and punch on the nose- revitalising rather than just ripe. A bit low-key and simple on the palate. Very dry finish. (Shame. I had been hoping that the 2004 heralded a new era for this property.)
Ripe, spicy blackcurrant, quite expressive. Fully ripe and quite elegant fruit, fresh tannins and long, elegant flavour. A bit restrained now, but will be very elegant. Drink from 2015. Awarded 4 stars.
Another 2005 playing it closer to the vest this year than last, Rauzan-Gassies is an atypical (for a Margaux) tannic, masculine, muscular effort that is massive in the mouth. Revealing an inky/purple color along with notes of animal fur, roasted meats, black currants, licorice, and smoke, it is a powerful, solidly built wine with huge tannin that will require 8-10 years of cellaring. It should keep for three decades or more. Only patient purchasers should be buying this one.
I know I sound like a broken record, but here is another estate that may have produced its finest wine ... ever. Rauzan Gassies rarely merits a 90-point or higher score, but their 2005 is a beautifully pure, structured, multi-textured cuvee boasting an inky/purple color as well as a sweet perfume of camphor, black currants, vitamins, and iron. This pure, rich, moderately tannic, long Margaux will be at its peak between 2009-2025.
