1989 Château Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve
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Tasting notes
Kirsch, rose petal, orange blossom, and peppery notes all define the 1989 Châteauneuf Du Pape Reserve, a full-bodied effort that has a seamless, layered mouthfeel and a gorgeous finish. It's certainly a bigger, slightly more angular wine compared to the more seductive 1990, yet it's showing beautifully. As with the 1990, it's fully mature yet still blossoms with air and should continue to evolve gracefully. Don't make the mistake of waiting too long – it's incredible today. Drink 2026-2026.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
With an intoxicating nose of flowers, tobacco, orange spice, herbs, cherries, and raspberries, you already know this is going to be special. The long, sensuous, silky, refined, and pure, seamless seals the deal. No decanting or aging warranted. Drink from 2026-2031.
Magnum served blind. This seemed more structured than the 1998 served with it, even rather Syrah-like. Firm and dark and tighter than the 1998 with a hint of molasses. I think I would have drooled over it if I had not been able to compare it with the 1998. (JR)
About the producer
Ch. Rayas is a cult name in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The wines – pure, silken expressions of Grenache with distinctive perfume – are revered for their singularity and fiercely collected. Made by Emmanuel Reynaud and renowned for their ageability, they have become some of the region's most sought-after.