2014 Tardieu-Laurent Cuvee Speciale Chateauneuf du Pape

Opaque dark red black colour with a bright dark red hue. Aromas of black raspberries, subtle black cherries and liquorice emanate from the glass followed by hints of scorched earth and dried herbs. Medium to full bodied the palate is filled with luscious black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry flavours over infusions of incense, scorched earth and spice. Finishes with slightly grippy but perfectly balanced tannins. Excellent richness and power with a long spicy black raspberry, black cherry, liquorice, incense and subtle scorched earth aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc 14.5%

Other Reviews….
Winemaker Michel Tardieu makes a relatively modern style of wine that never lacks for fruit, texture or personality. The only special cuvée made (there’s no Vieilles Vignes), the 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Speciale is a brilliant looking barrel sample that comes all from the sandy parts of the La Crau lieu-dit. Possessing noticeably more depth and richness than the classic cuvée, it has medium to full-bodied weight, ripe tannin and classic notes of black raspberry, fruitcake, pepper and incense. It too will drink nicely on release but evolve gracefully for 10-12 years.
90-92 points
Jeb Dennuck – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate