Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of the many appellations in France that can be outstanding at its best and stylistically variable. We are in the south of France here, near the Mediterranean, so it is understandable that the wines of this region will tend toward higher alcohol levels and have a sun-baked character.
Yet anyone who has tasted a mature Chateau Rayas, made from 100% Grenache, will know that Châteauneuf-du-Pape is capable of achieving heights of finesse and aromatic complexity akin to Grand Cru Burgundy. It is for this reason that Grenache is sometimes referred to as the ‘Pinot of the South’.
Traditional techniques seem to bring the best out of the Grenache grape, at least in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. By this, we mean fermentation in neutral tanks, and maturation in large old foudres. The 1999 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape is certainly a red Burgundy look-a-like. Pale ruby in colour, it possesses an aromatic, slightly floral nose, with notes of Asian spices and kirsch. The palate is refined and silky, with spicy complexity carrying the finish. All in all, this is a superb wine that illustrates just how arresting Châteauneuf-du-Pape can be.
1999 CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE
Producer: Clos des Papes
Variety: Grenache et al
Vintage: 1999
Region: Southern Rhône, France
ABV: 14.0%
Price: N/a
Closure: Cork
Format: 750ml
Date tasted: 18 October 2011
Tasting Note:
Mid garnet, bricking towards the rim. Complex and arresting nose; slightly floral (lavender), sandalwood, cinnamon, star anise, bright kirsch like fruit. Full bodied, but very elegant and refined, silky mouthfeel, very savoury in style – most definitely Old World! Oodles of spice on the finish, which is long and complex. A very elegant, classy and authentic Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Pinot of the south indeed!
Score: 18.5/20
Yet anyone who has tasted a mature Chateau Rayas, made from 100% Grenache, will know that Châteauneuf-du-Pape is capable of achieving heights of finesse and aromatic complexity akin to Grand Cru Burgundy. It is for this reason that Grenache is sometimes referred to as the ‘Pinot of the South’.
Traditional techniques seem to bring the best out of the Grenache grape, at least in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. By this, we mean fermentation in neutral tanks, and maturation in large old foudres. The 1999 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape is certainly a red Burgundy look-a-like. Pale ruby in colour, it possesses an aromatic, slightly floral nose, with notes of Asian spices and kirsch. The palate is refined and silky, with spicy complexity carrying the finish. All in all, this is a superb wine that illustrates just how arresting Châteauneuf-du-Pape can be.
1999 CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPEProducer: Clos des Papes
Variety: Grenache et al
Vintage: 1999
Region: Southern Rhône, France
ABV: 14.0%
Price: N/a
Closure: Cork
Format: 750ml
Date tasted: 18 October 2011
Tasting Note:
Mid garnet, bricking towards the rim. Complex and arresting nose; slightly floral (lavender), sandalwood, cinnamon, star anise, bright kirsch like fruit. Full bodied, but very elegant and refined, silky mouthfeel, very savoury in style – most definitely Old World! Oodles of spice on the finish, which is long and complex. A very elegant, classy and authentic Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Pinot of the south indeed!
Score: 18.5/20
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