Tasting Notes
Vinous 93-95
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.
Wine Advocate 96
"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."
Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027
JancisRobinson.com 16.5+
100% Grenache. Grapes are destemmed. Vinification and ageing for 16 months all in concrete tanks. pH 4, TA 4 g/l. Tasted blind. Crimson. Broad, ripe, fresh, black-cherry notes with balancing acidity and nothing out of kilter or overdone. Pretty hot finish but there is lots of ripe fruit here. Slightly dry end for the moment.
Anticipated maturity: 2024-2034
