2005 Chateauneuf du Pape

The 2005 Châteauneuf du Pape offers a classic bouquet (dark fruits, spice, licorice, roasted garrigue), but is still surprisingly structured and tannic on the palate. Made from 70% Grenache and 10% each of Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault, this medium-bodied effort has good overall purity and focus, but falls off slightly on the mid-palate, and when all is said and done, its tannin might outlive the fruit. Nevertheless, it’s drinking nicely now and should have no issues holding through 2020.

70% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Cinsault. From lieux-dits: Beaurenard, Nerthe, Cansaud, Gardine, Bois de La Ville, Graud. Erraflage. Élevage in foudres and wooden vat for 15 months. 80,000 bottles produced. Mid crimson. Focused fruit but a bit brutal. Still a work in progress. Unyielding for the moment. (JR)

Bright ruby. Spicy red berries on the nose, with suave cinnamon and clove qualities adding interest. Ripe cherry and blackberry flavors are supported by supple tannins, which add subtle grip to the long, juicy finish. Balanced to age but delicious now.