2005 Owen Sullivan R3 - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley (11/25/2008)
Really liked the 03 and never saw the 04 on the shelf, but read some dreadful things about that vintage. Wanted to see what the 05 was about as I was able to purchase for $24. It is a bit lighter in body than the 03, coming in barely at medium body, with some nice, but not excessive acidity. Didn't get any of the pickle juice profile some were complaining about in 04, rather this came across as juicy currant fruit with a very nice nose. A good wine at $24, but it could use more weight and mid-palate and that may come around with a little age in the bottle. A slight step down from the 03, but a nice wine nonetheless. (90 pts.)

The 05 R3 appears back on track after the 04 vintage. Didn't get the pickle juice for the 04 but to me, it was not as good as the 03. The BSH has more body than the R3 so that may be more to your liking. The 03 R3 I would rate at 91-92, the 04 87-88, and the 05 89-90. For the BSH I would rate the 03 at 89, the 04 at 90 and the 05 at 91. The BSH is similar in pricing to the R3 although $24 is a very good price since it is listed at $38. aloha

87 points: Cabernet fruit, tobacco, baking spice and black olive. Strong tannins that hint at being woody.