2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes

The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes is a tour de force. Raspberry and apricot-scented fruit, rich chocolate notes and an incredible whirlwind of spice are delivered in this full-bodied wine that shows no heat, just waves of flavor. It should drink well for 20 years or more.

The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes checks in as 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and the rest Mourvèdre and Cinsault, with 30% whole cluster. Its ruby/opaque color is following by terrific notes of cassis, cracked pepper, licorice and distinct minerality. Full-bodied, concentrated and with building tannin, it shows the more finesse-driven style of all of the 2015s, has fine tannin and a great finish.

Dark red colour. The nose is brewed, wide, chocolatey, has black raisin, prune depth. There is an overall impression of sweet ripeness. The palate gives a sustained richness, a firm ball of smoky black fruits, with some lift in the tannins. It’s powerful, but hands out a good bucket load of southern, sunny crop, has a successful, silken finish. Sep 2016, www.drinkrhone.com