2010 Domaine Charvin Chateauneuf du Pape

Laurent Charvin produces classic finely styled Grenache based wines showing great depth and finesse (approximately 80% Grenache for each wine with small amounts of Vacaresse and Mourvedre as well as small amounts of Carignan and Bourboulenc for the Cotes du Rhone). Situated at the northern limit of the appellation in “cooler” north facing slopes on very sandy soil, these vineyards are perfect for producing Grenache with an almost Burgundian finesse and freshness.
Winemaking is traditional with no de-stemming and all ageing is done in cement tanks. No wood is used for the elevage of either wine. The family has been farming these sites since the 1850’s. There are no secrets here, simply old vines, very low yields and minimal winemaking intervention.

Other Reviews….
More backward and concentrated, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits a deep ruby / purple color as well as dense, black raspberry, black currant, garrigue, licorice and lavender characteristics. Full bodied with undeniable elegance, minerality and precision, it needs 2-3 years of cellaring and should keep well for 15-20.
95+ points
Robert Parker—The Wine Advocate


My favorite vintage of this wine to date, the absolutely brilliant 2010 Domaine Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape exudes class and purity on both the nose and palate. It has knockout aromatics of sweet red and black fruits, lavender, wild herbs, and searing minerality that flow to a full-bodied, powerful, and concentrated 2010 that has awesome density and richness, yet also stays fresh, ethereal, and light on the palate. It's winner, yet it needs 4-6 years of bottle age to integrate its tannin; It will thrill for over two decades!
97 points
The Rhone Report