Chateau Marquis d’Alesme Becker Margaux 2005

The stronger 2005s from Bordeaux should be starting to drink well and the lesser wines revealing whether they had sufficient stuffing to last the distance. The Marquis d’Alesme Becker grand cru classé sits somewhere in between. It could be a little tired, offer glimpses of excellence or provide excellent drinking with the promise of more. Pleasingly it was the latter. The wine is still developing, providing a delicious expression of medium bodied Margaux with some extra fullness and fruit from the outstanding vintage. It has classic Bordeaux and Margaux in particular aromas of savoury blackcurrants and cedar. The palate has firm tannins, long length and lifted spice, cedar and blackcurrant flavours (and aromas) that speak of Margaux when it warrants a Burgundy analogy. This is an excellent Margaux and should drink well for a further decade. Rating: Very Good (★★★★). Reviewed: April 2022.