2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence

I loved the 2005 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Laurence, which is just about overflowing with Provençal charm and character. Red and black fruits, saddle leather, Provençal garrigue, and meaty nuances give way to a full-bodied, ripe, beautifully balanced and layered Chateauneuf du Pape. The tannins have integrated nicely, and it has plenty of mid-palate depth as well as a great finish. I don't see it getting any better, but it will clearly evolve for another decade.

The 2005 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence is terrific, and is certainly the finest release since the ’98 and ’01. The same blend as the classic cuvee (85% Grenache, 10% Syrah and the rest Mourvèdre and other varieties), it spent a full 48 months in old foudre prior to bottling. Gorgeously complex, with soaring garrigue, saddle leather, beef blood, iron and distinct minerality, this beauty is full-bodied, rich and layered on the palate, with a massive amount of fruit and tannin. Intense, Provencal, layered and decadent, enjoy this beauty over the coming 10-15 years.