Châteauneuf du Pape, Julien Barrot, 2019
The wine that used to be called “Signature.” Fruity, perfumed and slick, this is smooth and instantly likeable. There is real flow and ease to this, but with a deceptive persistence and intensity. Initially, the creamy red berry, griotte and damson fruit make for a heady start, some woody spices add dimension through the mid palate, whilst a cherry stone touch adds grip and a fresh twist to the finish. A blend of 14 parcels, mainly old vines Grenache (50 to 100 years old), with 20% Mourvedre and the balance made up of Syrah and Cinsault. Aged in large old wooden casks.
critic reviews
The charming, seductive 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Julien Barrot features attractive herbal nuances of resinous garrigue set against a backdrop of raspberries and blackberries. About 60% Grenache, 19% Mourvedre, 13% Syrah and 5% Cinsault, with the rest other permitted varieties, it fermented in concrete and aged mainly in foudres, with about one-third in demi-muids. It's full-bodied, supple, creamy and lush on the mid-palate, then fine and silky on the finish. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent notes.