97pts. This amazing Chateauneuf-du-Pape squares the circle of southern richness and spring-like freshness in spite of coming from a very warm and dry vintage. The stony minerality, saltiness and dried flower character wind together to form a dynamic whole, driving this gracefully across the palate. But I must also mention the savory and licorice richness that is so deftly wrapped around them. Very long, salty and velvety finish. Drink or hold.
The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape also showed well, with a lighter, elegant style that still brings plenty of intensity. Black cherries, mulberries, dried violets, and loamy earth define the bouquet, and it’s medium-bodied, balanced, and finesse-driven on the palate, with ripe tannins as well as a terrific sense of salinity on the finish. Give bottles 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 15+. 94 pts.
96-97. Such a deep and meaty nose with a slew of wild-herb, savory and subtle balsamic notes. Then comes the expansive and very concentrated palate, which reveals so many spicy nuances as it rolls over the palate, the stunning fine tannins pushing the finish out even further. A grenach-based blend from 60-year-old vines.
Prélevé dans le chai dédié aux Vieux Télégraphe sur l’un des 19 foudres, précisément le numéro 7, voilà un jeune plein d’avenir, l’éclat de fruit juteux et généreux, l’équilibre, la finesse de la pensée naissante, la promesse d’un millésime de haut niveau. Brillant comme les violons heureux du premier mouvement des Quatre Saison de Vivaldi.