2006 Chateauneuf du Pape

A blend of 85% Grenache and the balance Syrah, Mourvèdre, and an assortment of varieties, the 2006 E. Guigal Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an outstanding ’06 that boasts complex, meaty aromas of ripe Grenache fruit, leather, licorice, smoked garrigue, and roasted meats that give way to a full-bodied, textured, and rich Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Possessing that deep richness and concentration that comes from extended aging (this spent 3 years in foudre), this beauty is drinking brilliantly now, yet should continue to evolve gracefully for 5-7 years, if not longer.

Bright ruby. Sexy, perfumed aromas of raspberry preserves, potpourri and Asian spices, with a touch of anise in the background. Juicy and appealingly sweet, showing very good depth and vivacity to its red fruit and floral pastille flavors. Picks up a smoky quality with air and finishes with excellent clarity, silkiness and length. This is already drinking very well.

The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape offers sweet kirsch liqueur, garrigue, loamy earth, and spice characteristics in a deep, broad, substantial style. This evolved Chateauneuf will be drinkable upon release, and should last for 10-12 years. Robert Parker, Wine Advocate # 179 Oct 2008