Chateau La Tour Carnet 2005

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "The 2005 La Tour Carnet had a strong showing for this cru classé owned by Bernard Magrez. A blend of 51% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this dense purple-colored wine has notes of lead pencil shavings, cassis, and subtle, smoky oak. Full-bodied with sweet, savory black fruits and light, velvety tannin, this wine is just entering its plateau of maturity. Anticipated maturity: now-2030."

WINE SPECTATOR: "A pretty wine, with vanilla, currant and berry on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with toasty oak and currant notes and ripe, polished tannins. Best after 2013. 17,000 cases made."