2009 Chateauneuf du Pape

Ruby-red. Aromas of raspberry and blackberry, with bright floral and spice notes adding lift. Bright and focused, with taut red and dark berry flavors displaying very good energy and clarity. A touch of licorice adds depth to a smoky, energetic finish. Showing plenty of vivacity today, and its soft tannins suggest that it will be enjoyable soon.

A traditional, firm Châteauneuf that needs some bottle age to chill out, the 2009 Bosquet des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 12% Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault, Counoise, and Vaccarese that’s aged in a combination of tank, foudre, and demi-muid. It shows edgy, mineral-drenched red fruits, crushed stone, smoked earth, and meat juice on the nose. Medium-bodied on the palate, with an almost severe, unyielding feel, solid acidity, and loads of tannin, this should be cellared for 3-5 years and then consumed over the following decade. While not harsh, this is certainly a burly wine devoid of any fat, and is less approachable from bottle than from barrel. I think it will rate outstanding in a couple years, but time will tell.

Rather mean nose – nothing terribly opulent here. Lots of alcohol and quite a burn on the finish. Pretty firm tarry tannins on the end. Just not enough real interest on the mid palate. (JR)