It’s a well-known fact that 2005 was an extremely good vintage in Bordeaux. Many have been calling it the best vintage in a generation. That is, until reports came in about 2009. But that’s another story. The truth is, in classic vintages like this one, even wines with the most humble beginnings are terrific buys. So I figured the second label of the great Chateau Lagrange from St Julien would be a great wine.
I first tasted the 2005 Fiefs de LaGrange a little over three years ago. It was big, tannic, and impressive, especially for thirty bucks. It was full of potential. I thought for sure it would evolve nicely over the next few years, and most reviewers agreed. So I bought a few bottles last year and stashed them downstairs for a bit to let them soften up.
Unfortunately it seems they softened up too much. The bottle I opened recently was mature and even fading. Most of the structured complexity had dissipated and what was left was a dull, flat and boring wine. There was very little fruit, hardly any layers, and almost no personality.
Another disappointment from France. What a shame.