2006 Chateauneuf du Pape

Bright ruby. Energetic red berry and floral aromas are underscored by tobacco and pungent herbs. Midweight redcurrant and bitter cherry flavors are braced by tangy acidity and framed by dusty tannins. A bit rigid on the finish today, but I'll bet this will fill in with a couple years of bottle aging.

The dark ruby/plum-tinged 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape’s tarry, black currant-scented bouquet reveals notions of truffles and meaty/animal-like scents. Medium to full-bodied with good ripeness, an attractive texture, and a spicy, heady finish, it can be consumed over the next 7-8 years. One of the oldest estate bottlers of Chateauneuf du Pape, the Coulon family boasts an extraordinary track record of making wine. They were one of the first to offer a luxury cuvee, called Boisrenard. The Chateauneuf du Pape (a blend of 70% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 8% Cinsault, and the rest various authorized varietals) spends time in both small barrel and foudre.

Fresh, lively aromas – some buckwheat and herbs. Very confident cocktail of flavours. Lip smacking appetising stuff, even if not the most ‘serious’. Copybook Châteauneuf in the traditional style. (JR)