96 James Suckling - Jamessuckling.com

Stunning now. A fabulous nose of currants, crushed raspberry and blackberry. Full- bodied, with perfectly integrated tannins and a long, caressing finish. Drink or hold.

95 Jeb Dunnuck - jebdunnuck.com

Lots of red and black fruits, tobacco, saddle leather, and a kiss of iron all emerge from the 2005 Château Lagrange, a beautiful Saint-Julien that has polished tannins, a great mid-palate, and outstanding length. I love its overall purity, as well as its complexity, and it’s in the early stages of its prime drinking window with another 15-20 years of prime drinking ahead of it.

95 Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast

Big tannins here, but balanced and equaled by very ripe, immensely black fruit. Acidity playsa good counterpoint to the sweetness of the fruit

94 Jane Anson - Inside Bordeaux

Balanced, classic, fine tannins, stretched out through the palate, delicate and finessed. Not as powerful as some 2005s right now but one to recommend for opening and drinking. Rose petals, blond tobacco, freshly cured leather, wild strawberries, gentle hedgerow and earthy acidity. A lovely surprise, a lesson in understated, unfussy, elegant claret. More evolved than some, but this is where I feel good 2005s will end - a delightful fine, easy to drink and utterly moreish glass of wine. 60% new oak, 43% 1st wine. Eric Boissenot consultant.