Chateau Reignac 2005

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "From a large 200-acre vineyard, this blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a high plateau near the village of Saint-Loubès. A consistently over-achieving wine that is far superior to its humble appellation (Bordeaux Supérieur), the 2005 may be one of the all-time great Reignacs. Inky purple, almost black to the rim, the wine looks like a two-year-old rather than one that’s already hit a decade. Proprietors Yves and Stephanie Vatelot have turned out a superlative effort in this vintage that is cru classé quality. Dense crème de cassis, some graphite, spice box and cedar wood are all present in this full-bodied, super-concentrated, and remarkably impressive Reignac that has terrific purity, texture and length. Drink it over the next decade."

THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "Is this the deal of the year for a house wine? Depending on where you live, for $12, you get a nose filled with coffee bean, licorice, jammy dark berries, cherry and earth. Fleshy, round, ripe and ready to drink, the wine ends with chocolate covered plums and licorice. 2005 Reignac is a value Bordeaux wine worth buying by the case!"

WINE SPECTATOR: "There's a good smoky prune note on the nose, with lots of floral and mineral nuances. Has loads of fruit on the palate, with an interesting fresh tangerine note that comes through. Full-bodied and supersilky, with a long finish. Best after 2012. 17,500 cases made."