Ranked #5 of 35 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc from Wilyabrup
92/100
4 Stars
Huon Hooke
Opens with dried banana-like aroma, from oak? Floral/spicy, subdued red fruits. One-dimensional at this stage, still in its shell, but the palate is very elegant, clean and balanced. Quite dry and firm in tannins, lean and narrow in profile. Balance is good but it lacks dimension. Certainly needs more time. Lots of deep, fine-grained tannins and tightly-packed texture. Best 2012 to 2030.
Tasted: 11/08/2007
Drink: N/A
89 Points Robert Parker
The 2005 Diana Madeline is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and the balance Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. It was aged in 70% new oak. Purple-colored, it reveals a nose of toast, scorched earth, black currant, and blackberry. Elegantly styled with enough structure to evolve for 4-6 years, the wine has a lengthy, firm finish. It should drink well through 2020.
Source: Robert Parker (Robert Parker Wine Advocate) by Jay S Miller. October, 2007
96 Points James Halliday
As ever, has fine but persistent tannins running from the fore-palate through to the finish; the deep and intense fruit will sustain the wine until those tannins loosen their grip. All five Bordeaux varieties present led by Cabernet Sauvignon (75%). Drink to 2018.
Source: James Halliday. July, 2007
The 2005 Diana Madeline is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and the balance Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. It was aged in 70% new oak. Purple-colored, it reveals a nose of toast, scorched earth, black currant, and blackberry. Elegantly styled with enough structure to evolve for 4-6 years, the wine has a lengthy, firm finish. It should drink well through 2020.Source: Robert Parker (Wine Advocate) October, 2007 by Jay Miller