"Multi-dimensional nose, offering keen fruits, a mineral note and smoky oak. Luscious, alluring, with red berry fruits, refreshing acidity and balance." 5/5, Medoc 2005, Decanter Award (July 08)

"As usual, the 2005 Branaire-Ducru is one of the more distinctive wines of St.-Julien. Proprietor Patrick Maroteaux has turned out another classic. While not as opulent or fleshy as the 2003, and it remains to be seen if it will eclipse the 2000, the 2005 is a big, structured, intensely rich effort with raspberry, blueberry, and spring flower garden characteristics, stunning purity, full-bodied power, and good underlying acidity as well as harmony. The hard tannins suggest 8-9 years of cellaring will be beneficial; it should last for three decades." 95/100, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (April 08)

17/20, Jancis Robinson

92-94/100, Wine Spectator

"Alluring, with well-defined berry fruits and long balanced finish" 5/5, Wines of the Year, Decanter Award (November 08)