2005 Bond Melbury

eRobertParker.com #219 Jun 2015
Robert M. Parker, Jr.
95
The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Melbury, which comes from the hills east of Rutherford just north of Lake Hennessey and Pritchard Hill, is absolutely spectacular. This is a 7-acre parcel, planted in sedimentary and clay soils on steep slopes. Deep purple, with blueberry, black raspberry and graphite notes, a gracious and generous, full-bodied mouthfeel, soft, but noticeable tannin, a refreshing finish and loads of complexity, this is a compelling 2005 that seems to be coming close to its plateau of maturity, where it should last for 20-25 years. These wines are from Bill Harlan and his winemaking team. There certainly were no surprises, as they performed magnificently at age ten. Of course, they’re all 100% Cabernet Sauvignons. Harlan’s visionary spirit is responsible for long-term leases, which today include five fabulous sites spread out through different terroirs of Napa Valley. In 2005, there were only four, as the Quella, which is a 9-acre site in the eastern foothills of St. Helena, had not yet come to fruition. The culled-out component parts that are considered by the Bond Estate to be less impressive are blended together for what is essentially their second wine, The Matriarch, which is frequently a gorgeous wine, and made to be an early drinker.



Oct 31, 2008
JL
90
Well-centered, showing ripe, spicy plum, black cherry and currant flavors, with firm, integrated tannins and good length, tightening up on the finish. Best from 2011 through 2017. 785 cases made.



Jun 1, 2015
Robert M. Parker, Jr.
95
The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Melbury, which comes from the hills east of Rutherford just north of Lake Hennessey and Pritchard Hill, is absolutely spectacular. This is a 7-acre parcel, planted in sedimentary and clay soils on steep slopes. Deep purple, with blueberry, black raspberry and graphite notes, a gracious and generous, full-bodied mouthfeel, soft, but noticeable tannin, a refreshing finish and loads of complexity, this is a compelling 2005 that seems to be coming close to its plateau of maturity, where it should last for 20-25 years.These wines are from Bill Harlan and his winemaking team. There certainly were no surprises, as they performed magnificently at age ten. Of course, they’re all 100% Cabernet Sauvignons. Harlan’s visionary spirit is responsible for long-term leases, which today include five fabulous sites spread out through different terroirs of Napa Valley. In 2005, there were only four, as the Quella, which is a 9-acre site in the eastern foothills of St. Helena, had not yet come to fruition. The culled-out component parts that are considered by the Bond Estate to be less impressive are blended together for what is essentially their second wine, The Matriarch, which is frequently a gorgeous wine, and made to be an early drinker.Bond, Tel. 707.944.9445