The 2005 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru, a distinguished Pinot Noir from the Morey St Denis appellation in Burgundy, France, exemplifies power and elegance. Produced by Domaine des Lambrays, this wine boasts an alcohol content of 13.0% and is sealed with a cork closure. The vineyard's terroir and the winemaking techniques of Thierry Brouin are evident in the bottle, which has garnered high praise from wine critics.
Decanter rated it 96 points, noting Brouin's adept handling of the warm vintage conditions. "He delivered a wine that shows power and elegance simultaneously, with a well-developed black cherry fruit character, an intriguing yet discreet earthy, savoury note, and a pleasant hint of liquorice spice at the end," remarked the reviewer. This wine, with its firm and dense structure, is recommended for further aging.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, giving it 93 points, highlighted the wine's evolving character. "The 2005 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru offers up a youthfully reserved bouquet of raspberries, cassis, creamy new oak, and espresso roast," the review notes. It praises the wine's concentration and depth, forecasting that it will "begin to drink in style" in a few more years.
Wine Spectator awarded it 95 points, praising its purity and suppleness. The publication described it as having "a dense core of cherry, spice, and mineral aromas and flavors allied to a firm structure," underscoring its combination of power and finesse.
Wine Enthusiast gave the highest score of 98 points, celebrating its balance of freshness and intense richness. "It seems to float while still giving a huge mouthful of plums, coffee, and sweet, juicy tannins," said Roger Voss, emphasizing the straight line of pure flavor.
Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy rated it 94 points, noting the wine's vibrant color and accessible bouquet. The review highlighted its "generous rich red fruit" and the lighter touch of Thierry Brouin’s winemaking.
Vinous, with a score of 93 points, lauded its "knockout nose" and "wonderfully broad and rich" palate. Stephen Tanzer noted the wine's "serious dusting of tannins" and its potential for graceful evolution.
John Gilman from View From The Cellar also rated it 94 points, calling it "one of the finest vintages" since the estate's renaissance. He praised its deep and primary bouquet and full-bodied, focused palate.
In summary, the 2005 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru is a noteworthy Pinot Noir that has impressed critics with its balance of power and finesse, promising a rewarding experience for those who choose to cellar it further.