Trotanoy Pomerol 2005

96 points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): “This is destined to be a great vintage of Trot, which I have little doubt will end up superior to the more muscular 2010 that seems to have caught the imagination of so many commentators. The combination of ripeness and outstanding acidity that is found in the very best 2005s is very rare, and these qualities are certainly on display in this very young and potentially profound Trotanoy. The very young bouquet offers up a primary blend of black plums, black cherries, dark chocolate, woodsmoke, a touch of the gamebird to come, a lovely base of soil, incipient notes of nutskin and a lovely base of smoky new oak. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, young and rock solid at the core, with stunning focus and balance, ripe tannins, lovely, tangy acids and superb length and grip on the glorious finish. This will be a legendary Trotanoy, but it is going to take a long time to climb to cruising altitude. It should be almost timeless. 2030-2100. (Sep/Oct 2013)”

96 points/’Cellar Selection,’ Wine Enthusiast: “Certainly it is firm, with impressive power. But the smoothness of the ripe black fruits as they combine with the beautifully judged wood show a contrast of tension with the dense, chewy core. At its heart, this wine is dark and solid and concentrated, promising long aging. (Jun 2008)”

96 points Bettane & Desseauve’s Guide to the Wines of France: “The bouquet, which is just starting to develop, is subtle and diverse, with notes of violet and wild strawberries; in the mouth it reveal itself to be quite profound, with freshness and a long, intense, and velvety finish. Huge potential. Drink: 2011 up to 2025. (2011)”

95 points Robert Parker: “Complex aromas of sweet black cherries, loamy soil, roasted herbs, coffee, chocolate, and oak dominate the backward, muscular, virile 2005 Trotanoy. Deep ruby/purple to the rim, this broodingly backward, deep Pomerol exhibits admirable intensity, impressive purity, and a long, concentrated finish. Its character is similar to that of the 1998, but with more structure and tannin. I suspect my score will prove to be conservative after a decade of bottle age. Along with Petrus and Lafleur, Trotanoy is the most backward of all the Pomerols. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2035. (Apr 2008)”

95 points Wine Spectator: “Shows complex, subtle aromas of fruit and black olive, with hints of milk chocolate and ripe fruit. Develops wonderfully in the glass. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and beautiful sweet berry and light vanilla fruit character. Refined and balanced. This is very, very impressive. Best after 2013. 2,000 cases made. (3/31/08)”