2005 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, St Julien, Bordeaux

A Second Growth in 1855, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou regularly gives the First Growths a run for their money – especially since the arrival of third-generation owner Bruno Borie in 2003. Bruno never saw such an “easy vintage” as 2005, apparently: he considered every bunch “perfect”. Some 18 years on, this is only starting to come into its own, with the promise of spectacular things to come. There are pronounced, complex aromatics of fresh black fruits, leather, liquorice, dried leaves and cigars, though this is only a hint of what further ageing will bring. 

This is a dense, mouth-filling Claret with a lot of structure, a real concentration of fruit, and lively, refreshing acidity. Approach it now if you are inclined to do so, though it will evolve wonderfully for decades yet. Bruno is famed for his cooking, and this standout wine deserves a special dish: a côte de boeuf or grilled portobello mushrooms would work very well.

Drink now to 2050

Charlie Geoghegan DipWSET, Berry Bros. & Rudd