2006 Domaine Gerard Charvin Chateauneuf du Pape

Laurent Charvin runs this small family estate located in the north of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The domaine has vineyard holdings of just 8 hectares in Chateauneuf-du-Pape and 13 hectares in Cotes du Rhone. The average age of the vineyards is over 50 years old with the oldest being nearly 80 years age. Laurent Charvin describes his vineyard site as being ‘cool’ for Chateauneuf as their vines are mostly planted on sandy north facing slopes. Charvin produces fine traditionally styled wines showing great depth and finesse. They are both predominately made with Grenache (approximately 80%). Winemaking is traditional with no de-stemming. They are vinified in cement tanks – no wood is used for the elevage of either wine.

Other Reviews…
Charvin’s 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape has turned out to be one of the vintage’s top efforts. Lovely sweet notes of glove leather, roasted meats, spice box, ground pepper, kirsch, and raspberries are present in this deep, full-bodied 2006. More evolved than the 2007, with copious concentration, elegance, and a Burgundy grand cru-like complexity as well as freshness, it should be enjoyed over the next 12-15+ years.
93 points
Robert Parker – The Wine Advocate