I’m happy to go on record as saying I have soft spot for CDPs. I’ll drink Rayas and Charvin any day of the week and even the less prestigious (and less expensive) wines hit the spot if they’re well executed. There’s plenty of saturated flavour in this Grenache dominant blend which also incorporates Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. It’s not a wine for the faint-hearted though.
Raspberry coulis and kirsch, licorice and baking spice. It’s tarry, rich and warm but there aren’t any overt heat spikes. Lavender wafts from the glass and earthy, meaty qualities provide a counterpoint to the dense, ripe profile. A powerful, velvety wine with black fruit skulking beneath the surface. Ultimately the nutty and almost intricate tannin is crucial to its success…and I’m happy to say it’s up to the task. 92 Very Good
Region: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone Valley
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Cork
Price: $65
Tasted: May 2013