05 Hortevie [St Julien] This was something I picked up at Total Wine when I moved back here, just right off the shelf, for maybe $29ish. It's - strangely - a French grey market import which I didn't think a place like T-W would do, especially since they can direct import. But in any case, beyond the strange provenance of this compared to my normal 'buy on release and be patient' wont, it's a lovely wine. 13% abv, and it carries that balance effortlessly. On the first day its all sweet fruit and cassis, with resolved tannins, and a rich depth of flavor. On the second day, it rounds out with a touch of mulberry on the nose, and you can see bricking at the rims. I'd say this is
a point and can be consumed with delight. 2005 is one of my favorite overall vintages -- behind maybe only 1990 -- and this Hortevie is a fine example of everything that year offered: ripe fruit, depth, and interest. I'm trying to think of the last time I had this bottling...maybe 1996 or so? In any case, I don't think this is around any more. If you like Ducru, this is worth exploring if you ever seen any 2005+ vintages.
A- in my ledger.
PS: It went well with a platter of sushi the first night too, whether or not that is an approved pairing
PPS: it appears there is a bottle of this on WineBid right now, currently bid at $21. I realize everyone has different 'net' prices for items they acquire there, depending on shipping/taxes etc., but I doubt anyone would by unhappy with this at $30 or less.
