2004 Domaine de la Charbonnière Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres Cuvée Speciale

The three reds started with the impressive 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Hautes Brusquieres. A blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah, from the lieu-dit of the same name located in the more northern part of the appellation, it is completely de-stemmed and aged in 20% new French oak tanks. Loaded with notions of sweet kirsch, crushed stone-like minerality and ample herbs de Provence and garrigue qualities, this medium to full-bodied effort has excellent mid-palate depth, fine tannin and a great finish. Showing some maturity, it should continue to drink nicely for another 5-6 years. Possessing vines mostly in the eastern section of the appellation (17 hectares), Domaine de la Charbonniere is run by the Maret family, with the two daughters, Caroline and Veronique, now taking more and more responsibility for the domaine. These 2004s were beautiful across the board and show classic Southern Rhone characters. They’re all drinking nicely, and should hold for another 4-5 years.