2005 Realm The Bard
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
(62% cabernet sauvignon, 28% merlot and 10% petit verdot) Saturated, deep red. Fruit-driven aromas of raspberry and cherry. A creamy-sweet fruit bomb sexed up by all new oak and a high percentage of Taransaud and Darnajou barrels. Finishes with serious but ripe tannins and a note of medicinal cherry.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, the 2005 The Bard exhibits chocolate espresso, mocha, black currants, lavender, and cedar characteristics, along with terrific stuffing and a layered mouthfeel. While it is not as complex as the previous two efforts, I may have caught it at a slightly more subdued stage as it is just as concentrated as those cuvees. Previously recommended: 2004 The Bard (94), 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon (94), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Farella Vineyard (91), 2004 The Tempest (91). Tel. (707) 967-0226; Fax (707) 967-0227
Medium ruby. Black fruits and licorice on the youthfully stunted nose. Very sweet but lively in the mouth, with concentrated black fruit flavors that are not yet expressive. But this, too, offers a very suave, mouthfilling texture while remaining light on its feet. This slowly-evolving wine finishes with sweet tannins and very good verve.
About the producer
Realm Cellars has become one of Napa Valley’s most compelling modern estates, known for site-driven Cabernet Sauvignon. Drawing from some of the valley’s most sought-after vineyards, Realm’s wines consistently earn top critical acclaim while remaining firmly rooted in place.