2004 Chateauneuf du Pape

Showing brilliantly, with a deep, rich and layered profile, the straight 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape has gorgeous black cherry, earth, underbrush and background meatiness that gives way to a full-bodied, concentrated and pure feel on the palate. A foudre-aged blend of 30% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 5% Cinsault, with the balance a mix of the other permitted varieties, this knockout Chateauneuf du Pape will have another 10-15 years of prime drinking. Both of Beaucastel’s 2004s are some of the most youthful and structured in the vintage.

Still quite dark crimson. Strong balsamic notes – as though they were going all out for maximum ripeness in this era. Big and beefy. Quite chewy finish after meat extract and blackberries. But the finish is not exactly splendid. (JR)

Very nice but tight and slightly closed. With some coaxing, dark fruit, tobacco, earth and spice notes come through on the nose and it opens slightly with more air. Medium bodied with nice structure and balance that carries into a medium finish.