2005 Grand Pontet, St. Emilion, Bordeaux

Today, we'll describe several wines from St. Emilion and surrounding appellations.  From the famed St. Emilion appellation, this wine received 93 points from Robert Parker:  "From this 35 acre vineyard, Sophie Porquet has fashioned a sensational blend of 70% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.  Her finest effort since taking over this property in 1999, the 2005 boasts a saturated purple color followed by notes of ripe blackberries, black currants, licorice, incense, chocolate and espresso.  Thick, highly-extracted flavors nearly obscure the elevated tannins.  This big, serious, rich claret is meant to last for three decades or more.  A great wine for the vintage, it is also a sleeper of the vintage."  The list price is $39.