2005 Reignac, Bordeaux Superieur, Bordeaux

The category of "Bordeaux Superieur" indicates that the wine is a Bordeaux blend without specific appellation.  It also indicates higher quality than other wines that are just designated as Bordeaux wines.  For many vintages, Reignac is perhaps the most acclaimed Bordeaux Superieur wine.  It received 90 points from Robert Parker, "Possibly the finest Reignac I have ever tasted from proprietor Yves Vatelot, this superlative blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon is treated like a spoiled child, aged on its lees, and bottled unfiltered.  There are ober 16,000 cases of this cuvee, which should be uncommonly long-lived for a wine of this pedigree.  Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of blackberries, cherries, smoke and pain grille.  Deep, full-bodied, moderately tannin, fresh, and well-delineated, with 14% natural alcohol, it should drink well for 10-12 years."  The list price is $31.