As usual, the 2005 Branaire - Ducru is one of the more distinctive wines of St.

- Julien. Proprietor Patrick Maroteaux has turned out another classic. While not

as opulent or fleshy as the 2003, and it remains to be seen if it will eclipse the

2000, the 2005 is a big, structured, intensely rich effort with raspberry, blueberry,

and spring flower garden characteristics, stunning purity, full - bodied power,

and good underlying acidity as well as harmony. The hard tannins suggest 8 - 9

years of cellaring will be beneficial; it should last for three decades. Anticipated

maturity: 2015 - 2030+. /RP /Apr 2008