2015 Chateauneuf du Pape
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Tasting notes
Slightly more mid-weight, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape spots a lighter ruby color to go with classic Grenache notes of kirsch, dried spice, and sandy/loamy soil notes. Elegant, medium-bodied and silky, with a silky texture, it's already drinking nicely, yet should evolve nicely. Like the 2016, this cuvée is 100% Grenache, all from the Pignan lieu-dit (the northern part) and was brought up in demi-muids (20%) and older barrels. This tiny estate was created in 1995 by Frank Mousset (of Clos Saint Michel and Chateau des Fines Roches) and covers just over five acres. They make a very classic style of Châteauneuf du Pape, and both the 2015 and 2016 are outstanding wines.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
One thing I learned from this blind tasting is that I definitely have a soft spot for Grenache off sandy sites, like this 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape, which is 100% Grenache from Pignan (Nord). Garrigue, cherry and anise mark the nose, while the palate is creamy in texture and the licorice-tinged finish is silky. This complete, all-around effort should drink well for a decade or more.
Bright ruby. Fresh red and dark berry aromas are complemented by suggestions of licorice and candied rose. Sappy and expansive on the palate, offering sweet black raspberry and cherry flavors and hints of smoky minerals and spicecake. Shows impressive clarity and thrust on the energetic, persistent finish, which features slow-building, even tannins and lingering florality.
Tasted blind. Rather grey crimson and a pale rim. Simple, jammy nose and very pinched on the end. (JR)
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Product details
Grenache/ Garnacha , Syrah / Shiraz, Mourvedre/Monastrell/Mataro, Cinsault
Red
Dry