Chateau Quinault 2005

2005 is the first of two kosher vintages (2005, 2006) of Chateau Quinault, a right-bank Bordeaux blend. One sip of this wine and you’ll finally understand the Saint Emilion hype (in kosher terms, that is). Plush, extracted and beautifully toned, Chateau Quinault manages to perfectly balance accessibility in the short term with enjoyment over the long term. I say this because under that thick, fleshy layer of fruit and nuts is life preserving tannin that, when properly aerated, is barely noticeable. There is a hint of Merlot raisin on the attack that is actually quite pleasing and the mid-palate is framed by level acidity that enhances its flavors: not too flat and not too tart. The finish is long and enjoyable, soaked in a sweet berry soiree and peppered with citrus peel. To enjoy this now, I recommend decanting for at least two hours; if you don’t, you’ll experience some tannic kick at the very end of the finish, but nothing too intense for a seasoned wino. And if not now, enjoy this for the next 10-12 years. Santé!

• KosherWino Rating: 94 points (Rating Chart)
• Region: France, Bordeaux, Saint Emilion
• Color: Red
• Varietal: Bordeaux Blend
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Mevushal: No