Clos du Marquis 2005

The name of this wine, created at the beginning of the 20th century when the vineyard was planted, was inspired by the Petit Clos adjacent to the Château de Léoville, residence of the Marquis de Las Cases. Clos du Marquis is a historical brand by the Domaines Delon, a separate vineyard to Leoville Las Cases whose first vintage was released in 1902.

The creation of this brand was to allow a clear identification of two completely distinct terroirs. The situation remains unchanged today as the vineyard producing the Clos du Marquis is located on top terroirs of the Saint Julien appellation, surrounded by such prestigious Classified Growths as Léoville Poyferré and Léoville Barton. (Credit: Domaines Delon)

"The superb second wine, the 2005 Clos du Marquis, reflects the utter brilliance of the 2005 grand vin. It boasts an inky/ruby/purple color along with a sweet perfume of lead pencil, ripe cherries and black currants, and hints of earth and vanillin. Dense, chewy, fleshy, and full-bodied, this beauty will be drinkable in 3-4 years, and should keep for 15-20." - Robert Parker Jr, The Wine Advocate, (4/29/2008, Issue 176), Rating: 91, Drink: 2015-2035

"As usual, this estate’s second wine, the 2005 Clos du Marquis, is top-flight. Possessing more alcohol than the grand vin (13.45%), it offers gorgeous purity, plenty of red and black fruits, and a style similar to its more famous sibling. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035." - Robert Parker Jr, The Wine Advocate, (4/23/2006, Issue 164), Rating: 89-91, Drink: 2015-2035