Châteauneuf du Pape, 2011
A ravishing, moreish wine for fans of pure, restrained Châteauneuf. The complex flavours of damson, bullace, herb and forest berry are well-defined, intense but measured. The refined, ripe fruit character is offset by a gentle and very complimentary austerity that only adds to this wine’s appeal, whilst a crushed stone and minerally quality adds freshness to the finish. A friendlier version of 2010 and more serious than 2009. A class act. A Grenache dominated wine 65% blended with Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Clairette. All from the fine La Crau vineyard in the Bédarrides commune from vines averaging 60 years old. The grapes are part de-stemmed and after fermentation the wine is aged for ten months in concrete vats followed by ten months in wooden foudres.
critic reviews
(65% grenache, 15% syrah and 15% mourvedre): Bright ruby-red. Black raspberry, cherry compote, potpourri and Asian spices on the highly perfumed nose. Juicy red and dark berry flavors stain the palate, showing terrific clarity and spicy lift. The spicy quality comes back strong on the finish, which is framed by silky, harmonious tannins. In a graceful, almost weightless style, with zero excess fat but noteworthy flavor intensity. I underestimated this wine last year.