2004 Domaine Tardieu-Laurent Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Speciale VV
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Tasting notes
Very very heavy bottle. Négociant clearly stated on the label. Ruby, looks quite mature. Smells very sweet and mature. Glorious and fully evolved – in fact the fruit is starting to fade and the acidity beginning to dominate. Slightly drying on the end, but I bet it was lovely a couple of years ago. (JR)
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Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Josh Raynolds
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The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Speciale is a beauty. Comprised of 100% Grenache and aged 24 months (on lees) in used barrels, it offers a gorgeous bouquet of sweet kirsch, underbrush, crushed flowers and red licorice that’s followed by a full-bodied, sweetly fruited and textured profile on the palate. Showing more and more spice with air, it’s an impressive 2004 that will continue to shine for another 4-5 years, possibly longer. Michel Tardieu produced some serious wines in 2004, and all three of these cuvees showed brilliantly.
(no new barrels were used) Dark red. Intensely spiced aromas of raspberry and cherry preserves, accented by minerals and herbs. Nervy, nicely focused red fruit flavors show excellent depth and are complemented by notes of anise and floral pastille. Finishes sweet and impressively long, with a lingering floral quality.
Bright red color. Pure, fragrant aromas of raspberry, strawberry liqueur and spicy cherry. Offers a satin-like texture, with wonderful sweetness and concentration of red berry fruit. Some high-pitched, incisive notes of violet and licorice emerge with aeration.