Magrez Fombrauge Saint Emilion 2005

The quintessential garagiste offering from proprietor Bernard Magrez, this blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc receives such Burgundian treatments as a cold pre-fermentation maceration, malolactic in barrel, aging on its lees, and no fining or filtration. Offering a dense purple color along with huge creosote, smoke, melted licorice, fudge, blueberry, graphite, and coffee characteristics, it represents full-throttle, modern winemaking at its most intense, and is likely to cause neo-traditionalists to suffer from migraines. Expect this beauty to hit full maturity around 2014, and keep until 2030+.

Aromas of blackberry, mineral, vanilla and milk chocolate follow through to a full body, with super well-integrated tannins and a long, caressing finish. Balanced, refined and harmonious. Best after 2011. 550 cases made.