Domaine Leflaive, Chevalier-Montrachet 2005 Grand Cru

An ultra pure and still somewhat reserved nose of rose petal, anise, white peach and pear aromas that also display subtle hints of stone and smoke that dissolve seamlessly into unusually big and rich flavors that possess real size, weight and muscle, indeed this is almost Bâtard-like in its sheer volume, all wrapped in a deeply concentrated and wonderfully stony finish that is both impressively explosive and strikingly long. While it's a much bigger and denser version, the flavors positively vibrate in the mouth and it is this sense of barely restrained energy that reminds me a lot of the 1996 at the same stage of development. This remains an exceptionally promising Chevy though 6 years of development have now allowed this to at least become enjoyable and while there is still plenty of upside remaining, this could be enjoyed now if desired.

| Allen Meadows