2016 La Ferme du Mont Châteauneuf-du-Pape Côtes Capelan
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Tasting notes
La Ferme du Mont's 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Cotes Capelan is a fantastic example of Southern Rhône Grenache, albeit one made with a modern take (about a third of the wine was raised in barrels). Hints of vanilla appear on the nose, adding a bit of richness to the bright red berries and orange zest notes. It's a full-bodied, lush, creamy-textured wine, with fine tannins and hints of mulling spices on the long, silky finish. Great intensity, vibrant fruit and a plush texture make this a special wine indeed. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.
Critic scores
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Bright ruby. Intense red fruit liqueur and floral pastille aromas are complemented by Asian spice and smoky mineral notes that gain power as the wine opens up. Sappy and impressively concentrated but energetic as well, offering palate-caressing black raspberry and cherry compote flavors that pick up hints of allspice and cola on the back half. Combines richness and elegance with a sure hand and finishes extremely long and lively; harmonious tannins sneak in to add shape and grip.
80% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah. Cask sample. Some varnish aromas on the nose make this less pure than their Vendange 2016. The fruit seems a bit suppressed and understated too, somehow. (RH)
Based on 80% Grenache and 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, partially destemmed and aged in old barrel, the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Capelan is going to be another blockbuster from this estate. Cassis, roasted plums, licorice and roasted herbs all flow to a massive, rich, full-bodied, unctuous beauty that has serious depth and richness. With sweet tannin, beautiful purity, it's a sensational effort that’s going to have two decades of longevity.