Description
Laithwaite Bordeaux Merlot 2005 is probably the No.1 outstanding wine of the Chai right now. Great vintages - and everyone is united on how good 2005 is - are the years to buy the less expensive wines ... the sun shone not just on pricey Pétrus but all round as Mother Nature spread her bounty generously.

Winemaker Jean-Marc combed the countryside, stained his teeth black tasting every young Merlot he could, and picked a series of little gems he has combined into this lovely, rich, fat, dark wine. There'll be almost a year in oak before he bottles it too.

Dark, dark black plum in colour, it clings to the sides of the glass - delivers all it promises on taste. Full flavoured ripe black plums, with a touch of Merlot bramble and extraordinary length. Already classy and will get even better with ageing.

International Wine Challenge 2007, United Kingdom