WineSpectator Review:
A ripe, mature style, showing wellrounded flavors of dried plum and cherry, with concentrated mineral and savory herb notes. Has a smooth finish, with supple tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Kosher. Drink now through 2010.

Parker Review:
The 2005 Grand Vin is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, aged for 24 months in French oak, unfined and unfiltered. It is dominated by tannins at the moment, albeit relatively ripe tannins, and needed a few hours of air to come around. The fruit has a hint of olive on the finish, and is otherwise rather closed, but as with everything Castel makes, this is beautifully balanced, nicely structured, graceful and elegant. It is more intense and ageworthy than the lovely and utterly charming 2005 Petit Castel reviewed earlier this year, but at the moment there is not much difference between them. The fruit comes from the same vineyard, and many might actually prefer the Petit Castel at least today. They will separate with time, however. The Grand Vin should definitely prove more ageworthy and complex. This wine can be approached young, with decanting. Drink now to 2016.