2005 Pedesclaux

The years before Pédésclaux had been taken under the wing of Jacky Lorenzetti, with the old label, but a vintage that was well received at the time, and seen as one of the best at the estate for years. It's a little subdued 17 years on, lacks depth to the brambled blackberry fruit although has juicy acidity and stretches out through the palate. Earthy, unfussy, one to drink up.

This wine was included because it did so well in a Decanter magazine blind tasting on the basis of a sample provided by the château. This one came via another route. Slightly weak rim with some evolution. A little simple but very attractive ripeness on the front palate. Slightly pinched on the finish. (JR)

Even though this may be one of the finest wines yet made at Pedesclaux, it is still a pleasant yet herbaceous, uninspiring effort for the vintage. The color is medium ruby, and the nose of fresh herbs intermixed with spice and diluted black cherry and currant fruit is one-dimensional. This offering stands out like a sore thumb in a great vintage. Along with Pichon-Lalande, it represents one of the two candidates for the worst performance by a Medoc classified growth. It should be drunk over the next 5-6 years.