2005 Duhart-Milon Rothschild
By Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild
2005 Duhart-Milon Rothschild from Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
Amongst the constellation of notable vintages from Bordeaux, the 2005 Duhart-Milon Rothschild remains an astute highlight. A year of amiable climatic conditions has birthed a wine that stands as a testament to the diligent hands at Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild. A fourth growth by classification, yet nothing short of first in stature.
Terroir and Technique: The Soul of an Exceptional Vintage
The regal terroir of Pauillac, graced with its deep gravel beds and impeccable drainage, has always been a sanctuary for Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2005, the weather patterns smiled upon the land, generating a wine dense with the promise of longevity. The 2005 Duhart-Milon Rothschild is richly layered with blackcurrant purity and seasoned with hints of graphite—a direct ode to its Pauillac roots. Delicately wrapped in refined tannins and an impeccable structure, it bears witness to traditional winemaking married perfectly with modern precision.
Investment Worthiness: A Vintage to Reckon With
As fine wine investors seek archival-worthy bottles, the 2005 vintage proves its mettle time and again. Poised with exquisite complexity and evolving character, this emblem from Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild presents not only an indulgent experience for the discerning palates but also offers substantial investment potential—culminating in a persuasive cellar cornerstone.
I find that this vintage whispers tales of cedar forests intermingled with dark berries when decanted, unveiling a supple texture and harmonious balance at the table—a regal symphony one might say to accompany savoury courses.
In sum, 2005 Duhart-Milon Rothschild encapsulates the nobility of Pauillac in a bottle that exudes promise. From vigilant cellar guardianship to its grace upon your palate, each sip reaffirms its stature as one of the notable investment-grade wines within our fine wine circles. An heirloom vintage indeed—one that upholds the grandeur of Bordeaux's enological heritage.
Market price (HKD)
HK$7,780.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
57.86
Scores and tasting notes
The finest Duhart-Milon ever made? This structured, tannic, dense ruby/purple-tinged Pauillac offers up hints of cassis, licorice, chocolate, and earth. Medium to full-bodied with good purity, strong tannins, and undeniable elegance, it reveals a character not dissimilar from its renowned sibling, Lafite-Rothschild. A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot, it is unquestionably outstanding, but to my taste, slightly less opulent than the estate’s ethereal 2003. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #176 April 2008
This property, which has benefitted enormously from tremendous investments from the Rothschild family that owns Lafite, has turned out a dense purple-colored wine in 2005. Offering broad, expansive, supple and silky tannin as well as loads of Asian plum sauce, blackcurrants, and sweet cherries, this wine is seductive, medium to full-bodied, and luscious. This successful effort from the Rothschilds should continue to drink well for at least another two decades.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2015
Tasted single blind at Southwold. This has a tightly wound nose, cedar and blackberry, a touch of black plum and crushed rocks. As always – introspective and broody. The palate has a ripe plumy entry, very sweet fruit, a bit of heat here, brusque tannins and rather coarse towards the finish. Moderate length. It is a sulky Duhart at the moment, but give it time. Drink 2015-2035. Tasted January 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2009