2006 Chateauneuf du Pape

Not quite up to their 2005, the 2006 Clos de l'Oratoire des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape comes across as very traditional with black pepper, new leather, hoisin, gravel and stone aromas supporting pure, black cherry fruit. The palate is solid and well built with medium to full body, concentrated, rich fruit and a long finish. This is a workhorse Chateauneuf that should drink well for the next 10+ years.

A blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, Bourboulenc . Fragrant, delicate honeysuckle and fresh ultra-ripe pears. Rich slightly oily texture but with the same fragrance on the mid palate and more spice and almond kernel on the finish. Alcohol seems to give a little bit of heat at the end. Acidity is moderate and in balance. A big powerful wine yet with a floral delicacy still. (JH)