The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac is 100% Grenache, but this parcel is located on the western edge of the appellation, in what Chapoutier describes as a hot, dry location—even in the context of the appellation. From vines planted in 1901-1902, this is a dense, plummy wine, oozing with concentrated fruit and even turning a bit fudge-like on the long, supple finish. I don't expect it to age quite as well as the Croix de Bois, but it's still a thrilling wine.
Drinking Window: 2017 - 2027
Reviewer Name: Joe Czerwinski
ExternalLink: www.robertparker.com
External Id: https://www.robertparker.com/articles/WpxBLcWs6mkEbqKeb
Lurid ruby. An explosively perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red berries, candied lavender, incense and Asian spices. Concentrated raspberry, cinnamon, floral pastille and rhubarb flavors stain the palate and show an alluring sweetness and strong energy on the back half. Plays power off finesse with a deft hand and finishes extremely long and spicy; well-knit tannins make a late appearance.
Drinking Window: 0000 - 0000
Reviewer Name: Josh Raynolds
ExternalLink: www.vinous.com
External Id: Vinous Tasting Notes
Terrific, red berries and red plums with an array of wild, mountain herbs on offer. There’s a spicy, almost peppery thread through the palate. The tannins arrive in pastry-like layers. Superb. From organically grown grapes. Drink in 2020.
Drinking Window: 0000 - 0000
Reviewer Name: James Suckling
ExternalLink: www.jamessuckling.com
External Id: James Suckling Tasting Notes
Lurid ruby. An explosively perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red berries, candied lavender, incense and Asian spices. Concentrated raspberry, cinnamon, floral pastille and rhubarb flavours stain the palate and show an alluring sweetness and strong energy on the back half. It plays power off finesse with a deft hand and finishes extremely long and spicy; well-knit tannins make a late appearance.
M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape
M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a French wine appellation known for its bold Grenache-based red blends. Officially, the region makes both red and white wines with up to 13 different grapes. (Unofficially, there are 20 varieties used in the region!).
Let’s dig into the details of this historic wine and find out why Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the Southern Rhône’s most exclusive appellation.
A great bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge bursts with rich raspberry and plummy fruit flavors. As it evolves, you’ll taste notes of dusted leather, game, and herbs. The Francophiles – and the actual French – call this herbal play “garrigue,” after the region’s scrubland of sage, rosemary, and lavender.
As if that wasn’t enough, CdP Rouge often finishes on a sweet-strawberry tingle that glows in the back of your throat from elevated alcohol. The finish ranges from sweet to savory, depending on the vintage.