Deep, rich and concentrated, the youthful and classically built 2005 Hermitage is a fair click better than the '06 (which isn't always a given as a lot of 2006s have more charm and texture than their 2005 siblings). It offers textbook graphite, toasted spice, crushed rock and dark fruits in its full-bodied, layered and structured profile. It's still youthful and is just starting to show some secondary nuances. I'd happily drink it anytime over the coming 10-15 years.

Not as grippy as most 2005s, but wonderfully ripe and balanced, with dark plum, fig and blackberry fruit laid over suave black tea and melted licorice hints. The lingering, toasty finish is well-integrated. Drink now through 2016. 2,500 cases made. -JM