2015 Chateauneuf du Pape La Cote Ronde

A blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah that spends 16 months in new oak barrels, the 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee la Cote Ronde is a dark, leathery, chocolaty and richly tannic wine. It may turn out OK in the long run, but my feeling is that it lacks that bit of vibrance it needs to sustain it over the 10 years it will take to shed its tannin.

Deep ruby. Oak-spiced cherry and dark berry scents, accompanied by strong woodsmoke and vanilla undertones. Lush and round on the palate, offering sweet cherry-vanilla, blackberry and mocha flavors and a musky touch of licorice. Clings with strong authority on the finish, which features supple tannins and an emphatic echo of sweet oak spices.

L’Arnesque, Baratin, Barbe d’Asne, La Barnouine. 50% Grenache, 50% Syrah. Destemmed and vinified in stainless steel . pH 3.61, TA 3.52 g/l. Tasted blind. Deep purplish crimson. Ye olde black-cherry ripeness on the nose and massive, buttery impact on the palate. Massive but a bit sharp on the end. Everything exaggerated, including the acidity. Napa caricature? (JR)