456 products

Southern Rhone

Considered one of the bargain categories in European wine, the wave of enthusiasm for Cotes du Rhone styles continues to grow. This vast region offers delicious Grenache-based reds, often blended with Cinsault, Shiraz & Mourvedre that are densely coloured, fleshy, supple and flavourful. Entry level wines make for delightful early drinking, while the very best examples can be exceptionally long-lived. Focusing on small grower-producers, Nicks Wine Merchants directly import some tremendous values from Rasteau, Cairanne, Valreas, Gigondas, Lirac and Chateauneuf du Pape, amongst others. Rhone Rose and dry white wines are also frequently stocked.
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    2016 Agly Brothers Cotes du Roussillon Villages
    Cotes de Roussillon, FRANCE
    $42. 99
    Bottle
    $515.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2025-2026)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    A blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache matured in French oak barriques for 18 months. Midnight black in colour with a vibrant dark red hue. Aromas of black cherry and liquorice have a leathery overlay with notions of graphite, scorched earth and pepper following on. Medium to full bodied, rich black raspberry, black cherry, liquorice and leather flavours are wrapped up in a tense chewy mouthfeel. Scorched earth, provincial herbs and peppered dried meat elements are also evident. Muscular tannin structure finishing dry and slightly grippy with a long peppery aftertaste.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews….
    From the same parcel every year and a blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache, the purple-hued 2016 Côtes du Roussillon Villages gives up a very young, juicy bouquet of blue fruits, violets, lavender, and pepper. This beauty packs ample fruit and offers terrific purity, full body, and supple, sweet tannins. It needs a year of bottle age but is a ripe, sexy wine. Drink 2018-2026.
    93 points
    JebDunnuck.com

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    2020 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $280. 00
    Bottle
    $3360.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Beaucastel's 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape is shaping up as a blend of 30% each Grenache and Mourvèdre, with 10% each Counoise and Syrah, plus 20% other permitted varieties, including a healthy proportion of white grapes. Complex and red-fruited, with hints of flowers and garrigue, it's expansive and richly textured on the palate, finishing long and silky. Drink 2023 - 2037.
    95-97 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 06, 2022)

    The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape displays pronounced aromas of ripe forest strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blackcurrant, licorice, mint, cured meat, dried herbs and hints of tobacco. On the palate it is full-bodied, concentrated, muscular and framed by polished tannins. Lively acids perfectly balance it, ending with excellent persistence on the savory finish. Producing this high level of quality with a whopping 180,000 bottles is remarkable in the context of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Drink 2024-2042.
    95 points
    Nicolas Greinacher - Vinous

    Very dense black-fruit aromas, but also licorice, an entire microcosm of spice and a whiff of smoked bacon. Very dense and meaty with an incredible tannin structure that enables this to be simultaneously very big and elegant. Super-long finish with enormous mineral freshness. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape was scheduled to be bottled the week after this tasting, and it's the usual blend of 35% Mourvedre, 25% Grenache, and the rest Syrah, Counoise, and other permitted varieties. While the estate compares this to their 2016, it reminds me slightly of their 1990 and has a wonderful perfume of red, blue, and black fruits, as well as sappy garrigue, saddle leather, and ground pepper. It's beautifully textured, medium to full-bodied, has a good sense of freshness, and fine tannins, as well as a tight, focused style on the palate that bodes well for longevity. It deserves 7-8 years of bottle age and should be long-lived.
    94-96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Fresh and bright nose, then a palate with exceptionally smooth and fine tannins, lovely acidity and notes of blackberry and raspberry juice. Particularly fine, elegant and balanced this year. Grenache and Cinsault fermented in cement, Syrah and Mourvèdre fermented in foudre. Drink 2028 - 2042.
    96 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    2019 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $260. 00
    Bottle
    $3120.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The dark-fruited, plummy and cola-scented 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape is a rich, full-bodied effort reminiscent of the 2007 or 2009. Dense, powerful and savory, it may drink well for a short time on release, but expect it to close up shortly, only to reemerge in several years. There's ample concentration and sufficient tannins for the long haul, with a long, dusty finish and hints of licorice that bode well for the future. Drink 2026 - 2038.
    95 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 2022)

    Saturated violet color. Powerful, mineral-accented cherry, blackberry, licorice and -garrigue- scents, along with a hint of candied flowers. Deep, penetrating and alluringly sweet, offering cherry liqueur, dark berry, lavender, exotic spice and cola flavors that are given spine by a core of juicy acidity. In a concentrated yet lively, fluid style. Finishes extremely long and precise, with building tannins and a powerful echo of spiciness and florality. Drink 2026-2036.
    95 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

    So much ripe damson-plum and blackberry fruit, but also notes of licorice, candied ginger and baking spices. In spite of all the considerable power and concentration, this is anything but loud or domineering, rather it tastes very poised and precise. Very long finish with pronounced stony character. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape is the usual blend of roughly 30% Mourvèdre, 30% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and the rest a mix of permitted varieties that was brought up in foudre. It offers a vivid ruby/purple hue as well as stunning aromatics of blueberries, violets, peppered beef, leather, and spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and elegant, it has just a kiss of classic Beaucastel wild, sauvage nuances, ripe, silky tannins, and a great finish. Give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following two decades. Drink 2025 - 2046.
    96+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    This is pretty gorgeous, with a remarkably pure display of cassis, cherry puree and plum reduction flavors laced ever so gently with threads of leather, alder and dried garrigue. The sleek iron spine is buried deeply on the finish, and there's a lingering hint of warm stone as the fruit echoes through. Built to last. Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Counoise, Vaccarèse, Terret, Muscardin, Clairette, Picpoul, Bourboulenc, Picardan and Roussanne. Best from 2024 through 2040.
    96 points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    Immediately rich and damson-scented with a shot of cassis running through it. A medium-bodied, very classic vintage with good freshness. Has a good sense of weight and drive, not endlessly deep like 2017 or 2016 but perfectly balanced. Should age well into the medium, if not long term, but what's more important is that it's extremely delicious, balanced and fresh. Grenache and Cinsault fermented in cement, Syrah and Mourvèdre fermented in foudre. A little less Syrah this year. Drink 2023 - 2033.
    96 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    • Nick's Import
    2018 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage A Jacques Perrin
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $799. 00
    Bottle
    $9588.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Red-fruited and garrigue-laden, the nose of the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage à Jacques Perrin is glorious, showing remarkable complexity in its notes of cherries, raspberries and strawberries, all accented by hints of bay leaf, lavender and thyme, plus deeper bass notes of black olives, roasted meat, espresso, star anise and dark chocolate. Full-bodied and intense, it seems to have added structure since last year, with a firm matrix of tannins holding it all together and lingering on the lengthy finish. Put this Mourvèdre-based blend (approximately 60%) away for five or more years; it should drink well for a couple of decades beyond that.
    99 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (Dec 2020)

    Inky ruby. Deep-pitched red and dark berry liqueur, candied violet, licorice and Moroccan spice scents show superb detail and a smoky mineral overtone. Densely packed and focused on the palate, offering powerful blueberry, bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors, along with chewing tobacco, floral pastille and fruitcake notes. Hangs on with serious persistence, steadily building tannins and reverberating florality. Two-thousand eighteen was a superb vintage for Mourvèdre, and it shows here, with that variety making up about a third of the blend. Drink 2027-2040.
    97 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

    Very spicy with grilled meat and lots of blackberry and blueberry aromas, together with moss and bark, following through to a full body with round, dusty tannins that are polished and together. Finishes a little tight, suggesting the need to age and open up. Chewy at the end, too. Better after 2024, when it opens.
    96 points
    James Suckling

    Lastly, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Hommage A Jacques Perrin showed beautifully, and while it doesn’t hit the heights of the 2001, 2007, 2010, 2016, or 2017, it’s a beautiful expression of this cuvée that deserves a place in the cellar. Revealing a deep purple hue as well as a kaleidoscope-like array of blueberries, charred meat, graphite, ground pepper, violets, and garrigue, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, seamless texture, building tannins, and a magical finish. It doesn’t have the sheer wealth of material found in truly great vintages and stays compact and focused on the palate, but it has beautiful depth of fruit and intensity as well as a seamlessness to its tannins. I suspect it will be relatively approachable by this cuvee’s standards, yet it still has enough structure and tannins to warrant a solid 7-8 years of bottle age. Given its balance, freshness, and purity, it’s going to age beautifully. Drink 2025 - 2050.
    97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    This is deeply coloured but not opaque. The 2018 Hommage has a heavy Mourvèdre fug that rises up from the glass with higher toned violet notes along with bass notes of liquorice, rolling tobacco, blackcurrant leaf and a little sticky damson. It’s fairly full-bodied, but without excesses, showing well balanced acidity and alcohol alongside grippy, gently muscular tannins. There are no signs of the more adverse climatic features of the vintage at this stage and it has a good sense of harmony. It’s an excellent wine, though perhaps not the most thunderous or profound Hommage but still a great wine and a remarkably elegant iteration of this cuvée. Amazingly drinkable already, but wait until 2028 if you can. Drink 2024 - 2036.
    97 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    • Organic
    • Nick's Import
    2018 Chateau Juvenal Les Ribes du Vallat Ventoux
    Ventoux, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $21. 99
    Bottle
    $263.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2022-2025)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A certified organic blend of Grenache and Cinsault. Midnight black in colour with a deep dark red black shaded hue. Lifted black raspberry and liquorice scents mix with scorched earth, dried herbs and pepper. Almost liqueur like in their level of concentration are black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits. Opulent feel with ripe chewy tannins lending support. Also evident are notions of scorched earth and blackpepper infused dried herbs. Concludes warm, spicy and quite deep.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Not yet bottled, the 2018 Ventoux Les Ribes Du Vallat (70/30 Grenache and Syrah brought up in stainless steel) is similar to the 2017 and offers perfumed raspberry fruits, spice and floral notes as well as a rounded, textured, pure style on the palate. It’s going to be a smoking value geared for near-term drinking.
    90-92 points
    JebDunnuck.com

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    2020 Chateau Mont-Redon Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $110. 00
    Bottle
    $1320.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Made from a  blend of 60% Grenache Noir, 30% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre & 2% Cinsault, Counoise, Muscardin & Vaccarèse. Very deep black dark red core with a dark red purple hue. Wafting through the olfactory senses are black raspberry and liquorice scents infused with a mix of graphite and pepper. Some herb du Provence and spicy earth notes are also evident. Rich, concentrated and succulent, black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits are layered across the sizeable palate. Ripe chewy tannins lend a muscular feel with earthy graphite and peppered dried herb elements lingering underneath. Superb power and depth concluding long, dense and meaty.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 15.5%

    Other Reviews….
    The deeply fragrant nose pulls you inexorably into this majestic Chateauneuf. So vibrant and refined for this amount of power and concentration. Breathtaking Mediterranean herbal freshness at the super-long finish.
    96 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    The classic 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape is straight-up terrific and excels in the vintage. It will be interesting to compare this to the Le Plateau over the coming 20 years or so. Giving up lots of red and blue fruits, violets, flowers, and hints of graphite, it’s medium to full-bodied, has a layered, seamless mouthfeel, beautifully integrated tannins, and remarkable purity as well as length. It’s a brilliant Châteauneuf du Pape from this talented team that readers will love to have in their cellars. Enjoy bottles any time over the coming 15-20 years. Drink 2022-2042.
    94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

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    • Nick's Import
    2021 Chateau Pegau Cotes du Rhone Villages Cuvee Setier
    Cotes du Rhone Villages, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Château Pegau is Laurence and Paul Féraud’s 60 hectare estate, located in Sorgues, less than 6 km from Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The wines regularly over deliver, showcasing the estate’s excellent terroir, with the unmistakable imprint of Pegau. Made by Laurence Feraud in the recently built cellar at the estate, the Cuvee Setier is a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Mouvèdre & 20% Syrah.
    Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Pepper and clove infused aromas of dark raspberry and red liquorice show good lift out of the glass with some scorched earth and dried meat notes also evident. Amply fleshed, the mid weighted palate is decorated with rich spicy dark raspberry and liquorice fruits which overlay a scorched earth and peppered herb back drop. Sturdy tannins impart a slightly meaty feel. Finishes savoury, dark fruited and pepper laced.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Lots of cherries, red berries, cola and caramel on the aromatic nose. Medium body with fine, firm tannins and bright acidity. Juicy and crunchy with a peppery edge and a flavorful, focused finish. 60% grenache, 20% syrah and 20% mourvedre. Drink or hold.
    92 points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau Pegau Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Maclura
    Cotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 10% Cinsault. Deep dark red colour with a dark red hue. Pronounced ripe black raspberry and liquorice aromas mix with black cherries, scorched earth and peppered herb notes. Lush black cherry and liquorice fruits are delivered with terrific richness, backed by a ripe chewy tannin structure. Lingering in the background are scorched earth, peppered dried herb and subtle leather characters. Grippy mouthfeel. Excellent depth with a robust yet generously endowed conclusion.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    A pretty complex nose of cherries, berries, dried herbs, cola and baking spices. It’s medium-bodied with finely grained tannins. Round and juicy with a bright core of cherries and some chocolate undertones towards the finish. Balanced and delicious with a vivid finish. Drink or hold.
    92 points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    2020 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape Magnum (1500ml)
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $599. 00
    Bottle
    $7188.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Proprietor Paul-Vincent Avril expects to bottle 100,000 bottles of something approximating this "final blend," tasted out of foudre. A blend of 55% Grenache, 35% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah and other permitted varieties, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape looked exceptional on this day, offering up scents of framboise and kirsch alongside dried flowers and Asian spices. Full-bodied yet weightless, silky and long, this is special stuff, complex and balanced. Drink: 2022-2040.
    96-98 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 2022)

    The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape showed brilliantly and is certainly one of the stars in the vintage. Based on 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, and the rest Syrah and other permitted varieties, it shines for its elegance and purity, offering a wonderful core of red and black fruits, medium to full body, silky, incredibly polished tannins, flawless balance, and already complex notes of flowers, sappy garrigue, Provençal spice. It has the estate's incredible ability to bring wonderful intensity and richness while staying graceful and seamless. It reminds me slightly of the 2012, possibly the 2006, and while it already offers pleasure, it will evolve for 20+ years in cold cellars. Drink: 2022-2044.
    96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Beguiling, with a plume of black tea and incense leading off, followed by black cherry reduction, cassis, melted black licorice, warm earth, singed tobacco and garrigue accents. Offers breadth and depth with a seamless feel, capped by a subtle mineral edge that lingers lengthily amid the beautiful fruit. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2024 through 2040.
    97 points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    A very Clos des Papes vintage,' says Vincent Avril, and I know what he means - a vintage that naturally delivers the kind of fresh, elegant wines that this estate is famous for. A tasting of several foudres point to a wine with natural, easy balance. The Mourvèdre is excellent here this year, and adds great depth to the fresh and delightful Grenache that has notes of black tea, black cherry and iron. Elegant and very fine. Drink: 2023-2042.
    98 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    2020 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Proprietor Paul-Vincent Avril expects to bottle 100,000 bottles of something approximating this "final blend," tasted out of foudre. A blend of 55% Grenache, 35% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah and other permitted varieties, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape looked exceptional on this day, offering up scents of framboise and kirsch alongside dried flowers and Asian spices. Full-bodied yet weightless, silky and long, this is special stuff, complex and balanced. Drink: 2022-2040.
    96-98 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 2022)

    The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape showed brilliantly and is certainly one of the stars in the vintage. Based on 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, and the rest Syrah and other permitted varieties, it shines for its elegance and purity, offering a wonderful core of red and black fruits, medium to full body, silky, incredibly polished tannins, flawless balance, and already complex notes of flowers, sappy garrigue, Provençal spice. It has the estate's incredible ability to bring wonderful intensity and richness while staying graceful and seamless. It reminds me slightly of the 2012, possibly the 2006, and while it already offers pleasure, it will evolve for 20+ years in cold cellars. Drink: 2022-2044.
    96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Beguiling, with a plume of black tea and incense leading off, followed by black cherry reduction, cassis, melted black licorice, warm earth, singed tobacco and garrigue accents. Offers breadth and depth with a seamless feel, capped by a subtle mineral edge that lingers lengthily amid the beautiful fruit. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2024 through 2040.
    97 points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    A very Clos des Papes vintage,' says Vincent Avril, and I know what he means - a vintage that naturally delivers the kind of fresh, elegant wines that this estate is famous for. A tasting of several foudres point to a wine with natural, easy balance. The Mourvèdre is excellent here this year, and adds great depth to the fresh and delightful Grenache that has notes of black tea, black cherry and iron. Elegant and very fine. Drink: 2023-2042.
    98 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    2018 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Bursting with striking red-fruit aromas and delicate cinnamon, clove and star anise notes, the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape is another terrific vintage from this estate. While certainly full-bodied and powerful, it's also lithe and silky, with an almost airy feel on the palate that translates into great elegance on the lengthy finish.
    95 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (Sep 2020)

    Deep magenta. Intensely perfumed, mineral-tinged raspberry and cherry preserve scents are complicated by garrigue and Moroccan spice nuances. Juicy and appealingly sweet, displaying fleshy red fruit liqueur, spicecake and lavender pastille flavors that deepen steadily on the back half. Smoothly balances richness and energy and finishes extremely long and sappy, with smooth, harmonious tannins and a strong echo of candied flowers.
    94-96 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

    Due to devastating yields, there’s not much of the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape to go around, but it’s going to be worth the extra effort to track down. Based on 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah (and a splash of other permitted varieties), it offers a textbook, classic Châteauneuf du Pape nose of mulled red and black fruits, Provençal garrigue, ground pepper, and saddle leather. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied Clos des Papes that has thrillingly polished tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. Made in a style similar to the 1999, 2004, and maybe a kiss of the 2006, it has the beautiful elegance (again, a Grand Cru Burgundy comes to mind) paired with plenty of intensity and length. I doubt it will shut down and it’s going to evolve nicely for 15-20 years or more.
    96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

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    2015 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape is reminiscent of a slightly improved 2005 and has a fresh, classic style with beautiful concentration, notable freshness, first-rate tannin quality, and the classic spice and sweet red and black fruits this cuvee is known for. I suspect this beauty will close down relatively quickly after bottling and take 5-6 years to show at its best, but it will drink well for 15+ years.
    94-96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck - Wine Advocate #227 (Oct 2016)

    This has a drop-dead gorgeous core of cassis and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that holds center stage but still allows notes of Lapsang souchong tea, anise, incense and shiso leaf to chime in. Very long, with a sublime feel through the mineral-tinged finish. So seductive already, but this will cruise in the cellar. Drink now through 2040. 6,000 cases made.
    98 points
    Wine Spectator

    Impressive and bright mixed summer berry and spiced cherry fruits on the nose in a vibrant, alluringly complex style. The palate delivers succulently ripe red cherry and plum fruit flavors. Plenty of weight. Gently warm and spicy finish. Drink from 2020.
    93 points
    James Suckling

    (raised in foudres) Deep ruby. Hugely aromatic red and dark berry, potpourri and floral scents are underscored by smoky minerality and an exotic suggestion of Asian spices. Sappy, focused and impressively deep yet lively, offering alluringly sweet raspberry, cherry compote and spicecake flavors and a refreshingly bitter touch of blood orange. Puts on weight and spreads out steadily with air, acquiring a succulent herb note that carries through the strikingly long, mineral-laced, gently tannic finish. This beauty is shaping up to be among the standouts of this extremely successful vintage.
    94-96 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

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    2021 Delas Saint-Esprit Cotes du Rhone
    Cotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Founded in 1835 in the heart of the northern Rhône, the Saint-Esprit is their entry level Cotes du Rhone offering that consistently delivers great value.
    Deep dark red black colour with a vibrant dark red hue. Lifted red raspberry, cherry and red liquorice scents infused with herbs du Provence are trailed by some earthy incense like notes and spice. Rich, spicy dark raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits are both juicy and fleshy textured with herbs du Provence, earthy incense and pepper infusions on the back half. Slightly chewy tannins finishing fresh, long and moreish.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14%

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    2020 Domaine Charvin Chateauneuf du Pape Magnum (1500ml)
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $320. 00
    Bottle
    $3840.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    This great Chateauneuf combines the richness of the vintage with remarkable precision and vitality. Stacks of ripe damson plum, licorice and candied orange. Great tannin structure and lots of power on the full-bodied palate, with bitter chocolate and a stony character that builds at the very long, super-focused finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    Another beautiful wine from Laurent, his 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape is a classic blend of 82% Grenache, 5% each of Syrah and Mourvedre, and the rest Vaccarese and Counoise, all from the northern part of the appellation, aged in tank. Perfumed red fruits, rose petals, spice, and sappy, peppery garrigue all flow to a medium to full-bodied, seamless 2020 with silky tannins, wonderful balance, and a great finish. It needs 3-5 years in the cellar to hit the early stages of its drink window, where it should keep nicely for over a decade. Drink: 2022-2033.
    94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Little herbal note to the fruit bringing some complexity, this is saline, light, fresh, fluid and drinkable. Plenty of texture and interest to the fruit, with really searching tannins. Needs time to come round, will be elegant and charming when it does. Fruit, structure, fragrance and energy - it's got the lot. Very Charvin. Organically grown in the northwest of the appellation, in lieux-dits Cabrières and Maucoil where there's galets roulés and sand. It's fermented and then aged for 21 months in concrete using indigenous yeasts, then bottled unfiltered. Drink: 2025-2032.
    95 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    2020 Domaine Charvin Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $155. 00
    Bottle
    $1860.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    This great Chateauneuf combines the richness of the vintage with remarkable precision and vitality. Stacks of ripe damson plum, licorice and candied orange. Great tannin structure and lots of power on the full-bodied palate, with bitter chocolate and a stony character that builds at the very long, super-focused finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    Another beautiful wine from Laurent, his 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape is a classic blend of 82% Grenache, 5% each of Syrah and Mourvedre, and the rest Vaccarese and Counoise, all from the northern part of the appellation, aged in tank. Perfumed red fruits, rose petals, spice, and sappy, peppery garrigue all flow to a medium to full-bodied, seamless 2020 with silky tannins, wonderful balance, and a great finish. It needs 3-5 years in the cellar to hit the early stages of its drink window, where it should keep nicely for over a decade. Drink: 2022-2033.
    94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Little herbal note to the fruit bringing some complexity, this is saline, light, fresh, fluid and drinkable. Plenty of texture and interest to the fruit, with really searching tannins. Needs time to come round, will be elegant and charming when it does. Fruit, structure, fragrance and energy - it's got the lot. Very Charvin. Organically grown in the northwest of the appellation, in lieux-dits Cabrières and Maucoil where there's galets roulés and sand. It's fermented and then aged for 21 months in concrete using indigenous yeasts, then bottled unfiltered. Drink: 2025-2032.
    95 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    2020 Domaine Charvin Le Poutet Cotes du Rhone
    Cotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Run by Laurent Charvin this small family estate has vineyard holdings of 8 hectares in Chateauneuf du Pape and 13 hectares in Cotes du Rhone. Certified organic the average age of the vines is over 50 years old. These Grenache based wines follow traditional winemaking techniques with no de-stemming and all aging takes place in cement takes. Charvin’s Côtes du Rhône is regularly rated as one of the very best from this area and perhaps it is not surprising as the vines for this cuvee border directly on to the appellation for Chateauneuf du Pape in the northern sector where they are located.
    The 2020 is an interesting contrast in style to the rich, powerful 2019 vintage being brighter and fresher with more red fruits.

    Flooded with delicious red to dark fruits, this delicious Cotes du Rhone is rich and polished yet also remarkably fresh with a muscular edge.

    A blend of 81% Grenache, 7% Syrah, 7% Mourvedre and 5% Carignan raised in concrete vats for 18 months. Deep dark red colour with black shaded edges and a bright dark red hue. Sailing out of the glass are delightful red raspberry, liquorice and ripe cherry scents which mix in with Provincial herb, subtle incense and peppered earth notes. Rich and polished yet also remarkably fresh, the palate is flooded with delicious spicy red to dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruits. Slightly chalky tannins impart a muscular feel with fresh provincial herb infusions, incense and scorched earth elements lying underneath. Peppery, slightly grippy finish with a long delicious red to dark fruited aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 15%

    • 93
    • 94
    • Biodynamic
    2019 Domaine Chaume-Arnaud Vinsobres Rouge
    Vinsobres, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Valerie Chaume started Chaume-Arnaud when she was just 23 years old, renting 4.5 hectares of vineyards from her family. With her husband Philippe joining her in 1989, they expanded the cellar. Situated in the northern part of Cotes du Rhone villages, Vinsobres is one of the most northerly Crus in the Southern Rhone and sits at a high altitude of 400 to 450 meters, higher even than the highest vineyard in Gigondas.
    The 2019 Vinsobres is made up of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Cinsault, and 10% Mourvèdre. The fruit is mainly sourced from the high plateau and south-facing stony, limestone clay soil. Hand-picked fruit is de-stemmed, crushed, and fermented using only natural yeasts, with gentle elevage for three weeks after which it is matured in concrete tanks.
    Midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. Elevated black raspberry and liquorice aromas mix with scorched earth, dried herb and peppered meat notes. Rich black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits have a ripe chewy feel with scorched earth, dried meat and pepper characters lying underneath. Muscular tannin structure with a touch grippy yet long blackpepper infused finish that shows good freshness.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    A glorious nose - cherry blossom, raspberry and redcurrant coulis - I could smell this all day. Intense but not heavy with a great sense of purity, bright fruity acidity and very fine tannin. This has such charm and character, it's drinkable, focussed and precise with a little sappy, balsamic herbal note that brings it all together. Great value for money. Pebbly clay limestone slope, grown at 250 to 420m altitude. Hand-harvested, destemmed, indigenous yeasts, fermented then matured for 20 months in concrete. 15% Cinsault in the blend gives great aromatic freshness and fluidity on the palate. Drink 2021 – 2024.
    94 Points
    Matt Walls – Decanter

    • 98
    • 97
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $220. 00
    Bottle
    $2640.00 Dozen
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine de la Janasse are one of the leading estates in Chateauneuf du Pape today, having been formed in the mid twentieth century by Aimé Sabon and named after the family farm “La Janasse” located in Courthézon. Over time Aimé has expanded their holdings from 15 hectares to now occupy 90 hectares of vines, including some of the finest parcels on the La Crau plateau. Today the domaine is run by siblings Isabelle and Christophe Sabon, each heavily involved in all aspects of production from vineyard to bottling.

    Janasse Vieilles Vignes is their old vine cuvee sourced from four different yet complementary terroirs, planted in 1920 (40%), 1965 (40%), 1976 (10%), and 1993 (10%). The blend can alter slightly each year, with Grenache always the dominant player supported by lesser proportions of Mourvedre and Syrah.

    Other Reviews....
    Black cherries, blackberries and garrigue all appear on the nose of the dense, concentrated 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes. Yes, the wine boasts some formidable tannins, but they're ripe, and the fruit is vibrant and intense, with all of the ingredients for cellaring up to two decades. With time, it might even approach the performance of the 2009 (99 points) or 2010 (100). Drink 2025-2040.
    98+ points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 06, 2022)

    Lastly, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes is another tour de force from this estate, who are clearly firing on all cylinders today. A blend of 85% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah that’s brought up in a mix of foudre and barrel, its deep purple hue is followed by a rich, powerful, full-bodied wine offering ample cassis and darker berry fruits, notes of ground pepper, cured meats, and scorched earth, ripe, building tannins, incredible balance, and a great finish. It’s going to flirt with perfection at maturity, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it still drinking brilliantly at age 30. Drink 2021 - 2049.
    97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    • 98
    • 94
    • 98
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $175. 00
    Bottle
    $2100.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine de la Janasse are one of the leading estates in Chateauneuf du Pape today, having been formed in the mid twentieth century by Aimé Sabon and named after the family farm “La Janasse” located in Courthézon. Over time Aimé has expanded their holdings from 15 hectares to now occupy 90 hectares of vines, including some of the finest parcels on the La Crau plateau. Today the domaine is run by siblings Isabelle and Christophe Sabon, each heavily involved in all aspects of production from vineyard to bottling.
    Chaupin is a 100% Grenache cuvee with the vines planted as far back as 1912, each parcel planted on sandy soils. Grenache on sand produces wines with an elegant and refined character.

    Dense black as night colour with a deep dark red hue. Wafting from the glass are intoxicating black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice scents which are intermeshed with Provincial herb, peppered meat, scorched earth and spice notes. Combining glorious richness and power with structure, flamboyant black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry liqueur flavours are framed by a robust tannin framework that lends a sinewy feel to the otherwise voluptuous palate. Out of this world intensity and a dense textural feel are counterpointed by good underlying freshness. Lingering through the exceptionally long, brooding and muscular finish are notions of herbs du Provence, dried meats, spice and peppered earth elements.
    Drink over the next 8-10 years.
    Alc. 15.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Marked by scents of garrigue, raspberries and black cherries, the 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin is full-bodied, rich and tannic but also incredibly ripe and long. The betting here is that the fruit outlasts the tannins and that the wine develops similarly to the stunning 2005. Drink 2025-2040.
    94 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 06, 2022)

    I was able to taste the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Chaupin on two occasions, rating it one point higher on one of those as well. Incredible notes of red and black fruits, violets, scorched earth, ground pepper, and Provençal garrigue notes define the nose, and it’s a darker, richer, slightly more powerful wine than usual, while still showing the inherent elegance and finesse this cuvée always shows. Give bottles 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 15-20. Don’t miss it! Drink 2023 - 2044.
    98+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    • 96
    • 93
    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine de la Janasse are one of the leading estates in Chateauneuf du Pape today, having been formed in the mid twentieth century by Aimé Sabon and named after the family farm “La Janasse” located in Courthézon. Over time Aimé has expanded their holdings from 15 hectares to now occupy 90 hectares of vines, including some of the finest parcels on the La Crau plateau. Today the domaine is run by siblings Isabelle and Christophe Sabon, each heavily involved in all aspects of production from vineyard to bottling.
    Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre, and 5% Cinsault.

    Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Engulfing the olfactory senses are hedonistic aromas of black raspberry, liquorice and ripe black cherries which are complimented by scorched earth, herbs du Provence, dried meats and pepper. Extravagantly rich with a liqueur like concentration and dense texture, the large scaled palate is layered with a thick coating of black raspberry, liquorice, blackberry and cassis flavours. Firm, broad shouldered tannins provide ample framework with scorched earth, Provincial herb and peppered meat elements lurking below. Boasting magnificent power, depth and volume it finishes long and decadent yet chewy.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 15.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Black cherries and garrigue appear on the nose of the 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape, a blend of about 60% to 70% Grenache, plus lesser amounts of Mourvèdre and Syrah. Full-bodied, richly concentrated and tannic, with a long, mouthwatering finish, it's one entry-level CdP that should be cellared a year or two prior to consumption. Drink 2023-2035.
    93 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 06, 2022)

    I loved the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape, a classic Southern Rhône readers will love to have in their cellars. Medium to full-bodied, incredibly elegant, and even pretty, it has textbook red and black fruits, peppery garrigue, violets, and spice-like aromas and flavors. It’s always interesting when tasting through the wines from this estate to see the change in the tannins and just overall level of elegance when you move from their Côtes du Rhône to their Châteauneuf du Papes, and this is unquestionably worth seeking out and cellaring. It can be drunk any time over the coming 20 years. Drink 2021 - 2041.
    93 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    • 95
    • Biodynamic
    • Organic
    2019 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Lieu-Dit Clavin Cotes du Rhone
    Cotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $56. 99
    Bottle
    $683.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2027-2028)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Since taking over the estate from his father in 1992, Jean-Paul Daumen has become one of the most talented and revered winemakers in all of France regularly producing some of the top wines of the vintage. Made from a blend of 75% Grenache, 10% Cinsault, 5% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre and 5% other miscellaneous varieties, the Lieu-Dit Clavin vineyard is located 3 metres away from the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation boundary.

    Dense midnight black core with a deep dark red hue. Aromas of black cherry, liquorice and scorched earth mix with herbs du Provence and peppered meat notes. Cascading waves of rich, chewy textured black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits engulf the palate with great power. Scorched earth, dried meat and peppered herb elements lie underneath. Ripe muscular tannins firm up the finish and provide some grip to the long robust, richly fruited yet fresh aftertaste.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • 93
    2015 Domaine de Nizas Le Carignan Vieilles Vignes
    Vin de Pays de Caux, FRANCE
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2022-2023)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork
    Opaque dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Lifted ripe dark cherry aromas laced with fresh herbs are followed by some raspberry, earth and spice notes. Juicy and fresh, the mouth is decorated with vibrant ripe cherry, red currant and liquorice flavours which intermesh with fresh herbs, light earth and spice. Finishes with bright acidity and faintly chewy tannins. Aftertaste of ripe red cherries, red currant, subtle liquorice, fresh herbs and spicy earth.
    Cellar 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14%
    • 92
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Domaine des Escaravailles Les Sablieres Cotes du Rhone
    Cotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $21. 99
    Bottle
    $263.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine des Escaravailles has been owned by the Férran family since the 1950’s. It consists of 65 hectares of vineyards, 40 of which are on the rocky, clay-limestone hillsides of Rasteau. Les Sablieres is a Grenache Syrah blend sourced from vines between 30-50 years old.
    Dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant red fruit aromas of raspberry, cherry and liquorice are followed by some fresh herb, delicate earth and spicy pepper notes. Light to medium weight, delicious spicy red raspberry, cherry and red liquorice fruits overlay a subtle scorched earth and peppered fresh herb back drop. Juicy, energetic feel with lively acidity and polished tannins. Finishes with a red fruit laden aftertaste that’s infused with spice and pepper.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Domaine des Escaravailles Le Ventabren Cairanne
    Cairanne, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine des Escaravailles Le Ventabren is typically a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Carignan that is aged in concrete vats for 12 months. The Grenache and Carignan vines are 60 years old whilst the Syrah comes from 30 year old vines.
    Deep black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Spicy dark raspberry, liquorice and red cherry scents infused with pepper sail from the glass with subtle scorched earth and fresh herb scents also evident. Rich, juicy and spicy the moreish palate is awash with dark raspberry and liquorice fruits which meld into a scorched earth, herbs du Provence and peppered meat back drop. Good flesh with a sturdy tannin structure and energetic acidity providing the framework. Concludes long, succulent and peppery.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Domaine des Escaravailles La Ponce Rasteau
    Rasteau, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $32. 99
    Bottle
    $395.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Rasteau's 880 hectares of vines are planted on marl and red and yellow clay soils over sandstone with rounded stones covering some sectors, which in heatwave vintages act like health insurance against hydric stress. By law, the Grenache component in the dry red blends must be 50% minimum, with Syrah and/or Mourvedre 20% minimum and other grape varieties of the appellation tolerated up to 20%. In 2010 the Rasteau AOC was created allowing the wines to be named after the village, dropping the Cotes-du-Rhone tag and joining the likes of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas at the pinnacle of the wine hierarchy in the Southern Rhone.

    A Rich Blockbuster Rasteau.

    A blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah sourced from vines over 60 years old and 40 years old respectively. The Syrah component is aged in old 225 litre barrels whilst the Grenache is aged in concrete vats for a period of 15 months.
    Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Elevated black raspberry and liquorice aromas infused with pepper are trailed by black cherry, scorched earth, dried herb and graphite notes. Rich and power packed, the palate is engulfed with succulent black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits which sit atop a scorched earth, subtle graphite, dried meat and peppered herb back drop. Robust yet opulent feel with a muscular tannin structure that is nonetheless well integrated. Outstanding torque with a long pepper laced pedal to the metal finish.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 15%

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Domaine des Escaravailles Heritage 1924 Rasteau
    Rasteau, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $46. 99
    Bottle
    $563.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    This gorgeous 100% Grenache opens with a deep dark red black tinged colour and dark red hue. Wafting out of the glass are heady scents of black raspberries, liquorice and black cherries which are interwoven with dried meat, scorched earth and peppered herb notes. Concentrated and powerful, waves of rich, super succulent black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits swamp every corner of the mouth. Infusions of provincial herbs, scorched earth, incense like characters and peppered meats lie underneath. Ripe chewy tannins lend some muscle to what is otherwise a lavish feel. Concludes very long and seductive.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews…..
    All Grenache from very old vines and the clay soils of the Les Fouquesses lieu-dit, the 2020 Rasteau Héritage 1924 reveals a vivid purple/ruby hue to go with perfumed aromatics of kirsch liqueur, ground pepper, and flowery incense. It's medium to full-bodied, pure, balanced, and has a seamless mouthfeel. Raised all in concrete tank, this naked expression of Grenache is going to drink beautifully for a decade. Drink 2023-2033.
    93 points
    JebDunnuck.com

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 92
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Domaine des Escaravailles Heritage 1924 Rasteau - Last Stocks
    Rasteau, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. The nose is charged with black raspberry and liquorice aromas which are laced with fresh herb and white pepper. Hints of graphite and spicy black olive also chime in. The rich, concentrated palate is full in body but far from over the top. Delivered with prodigious power are black raspberry and liquorice fruits which are underpinned by a vibrant freshness and muscular tannin structure. Infusions of wild herbs, spice and white pepper flow onto the back half. Concludes with a long peppery aftertaste that combines juicy fruit with a sturdy feel.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews….
    Lots of kirsch, blackberry, leather, and garrigue notes emerge from the 2019 Rasteau Heritage 1924, a 100% Grenache release that was all destemmed and brought up in concrete, seeing no wood whatsoever. This medium to full-bodied, silky, elegant, lightly textured beauty has terrific purity, light tannins, and outstanding length. It’s more elegant and seamless than some of the previous vintages, which brought a touch more power and opulence, but I suspect it will gain richness with another year in bottle and drink nicely for 5-7 years. Drink 2023-2030.
    92 points
    JebDunnuck.com

    • 97
    • 96
    • 96
    • 96
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reserve
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2023-2033)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine du Pegau Reserve is produced from 85% Grenache, 9% Syrah and 4% Mourvedre, Counoise and other varieties. The grapes are not destemmed, and the natural yeast fermentation is completed in traditional, cement vats before ageing an average of 24 months in old foudres.

    An exceptionally concentrated and powerful Chateauneuf du Pape from the legendary Domaine du Pegau.

    Deep midnight black dark red core with a dark red hue. Engulfing the nostrils are intense dark to black raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry aromatics which are complimented by dried herb, scorched earth, peppered meat and leather notes. Rich, powerful and exceptionally concentrated, bold black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits explode across the full bodied palate which is framed by a sturdy tannin structure. Scorched earth, peppered herb, smoked meat and leather characters also chime in to lend further complexity. Opulent yet muscular in its feel, it finishes long, densely fruited and robust.
    Drink over the next 8-10 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    I was even more impressed by the 2020 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Réservée than the 2019. Boasting crazily complex floral scents, garrigue, raspberries and cherries, this is one incredibly perfumed example of Pegau. Medium to full-bodied, silky, elegant and long, this is quintessential Pegau. Drink 2022-2037.
    96-98 points
    Joe Czerwinski – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée is one of the strongest vintages for this wine in recent history. It is magnificent, soaring from the glass with pungent aromas of crème de cassis, ripe raspberry and strawberry, cured meat, tobacco, licorice, iodine and garrigue. Full-bodied, vibrant to the core and offering a multidimensional profile, this wine is really, really good. The Féraud family and the entire team deserve a round of applause for this sublime Cuvée Réservée, which will still be kicking ass 20 years from now. Drink 2027-2046.
    96 points
    Nicolas Greinacher – Vinous

    A layered and well-balanced Chateauneuf-du-Pape with aromas of wild berries, dried herbs, leather, roasted meat and stones. It’s full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Lots of layers and poise with a restrained character on the palate, despite the generous nature of the vintage. Complex and velvety with lots of cherry character and dried herbs towards the finish. Funnelled and structured with great focus and length. Better after 2025.
    96 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 95
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    2018 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2028-2029)
    ABV: 14.7%
    Closure: Cork

    While previously Cuvee Laurence was made from a specific barrel selection, today the wine is same blend as the Reserve except it has been aged in barrel for a longer period of time. The grapes are not destemmed, and the natural yeast fermentation is completed in traditional, cement vats before ageing in old, French oak barrels for an average of 40 months.
    According to Laurence Feraud, the wine is aged to approximate what might happen with Pegau Reserve after ten years of aging. On average, close to 650 cases are produced each vintage of Domaine du Pegau Cuvee Laurence.
    Midnight black dark red core with a dark red hue. Aromas of black cherries and liquorice infused with herbs du Provence are intertwined with scorched earth, dried meat, leather and blackpepper notes. Bold, intensely flavoured and amply endowed, rich black cherry, black raspberry and liquorice flavours meld into a prominent back drop of scorched earth, dried herbs, smoked meats, leather and pepper. Firm muscular tannin structure concluding long and chewy.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.7%

    Other Reviews….
    The 2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Laurence is opulent and sensual, bursting with pungent aromas of raspberry jam, ripe blackberry and black cherry, garrigue, white pepper and crushed rocks. Essentially, this is the same wine as the Cuvée Réservée, but instead of maturing it for two years, Laurence Féraud keeps it locked away for four, leading to more concentration, slightly elevated alcohol and a firmer tannic structure. It concludes with a long-lasting finish. Drink 2023-2043.
    95 points
    Nicolas Greinacher - Vinous

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 97
    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    2017 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $170. 00
    Bottle
    $2040.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)
    ABV: 14.7%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine du Pegau Reserve is produced from 85% Grenache, 9% Syrah and 4% Mourvedre, Counoise and other varieties. While previously Cuvee Laurence was made from a specific barrel selection, today the wine is same blend as the Reserve except it has been aged in barrel for a longer period of time. The grapes are not destemmed, and the natural yeast fermentation is completed in traditional, cement vats before ageing in old, French oak barrels for an average of 40 months.
    According to Laurence Feraud, the wine is aged to approximate what might happen with Pegau Reserve after ten years of aging. On average, close to 650 cases are produced each vintage of Domaine du Pegau Cuvee Laurence.
    Black as night heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Wafting out of the glass are ripe heady scents of black raspberry, liquorice, blackberry and black cherry which meld into scorched earth, dried meats, hints of leather and pepper. Rich black cherry, liquorice and black raspberry fruits are backed by a muscular tannin structure. Notions of scorched earth, leather and peppered dried meats add a further nuance to the back palate. Dry, slightly grippy finish. Excellent power and concentration with a long robust aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14.7%

    Other Reviews….
    Enveloping, warm and spicy nose with an extremely wide spectrum of aromas, ranging from dried rose to graphite via thyme and smoked bacon. Very powerful, concentrated and earthy, yet there’s brightness in there that makes it shine, Stunningly fine tannins power the super-long finish. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    I loved the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Laurence. It has a more classic style in its Provençal aromas and flavors of peppery herbs, garrigue, sandalwood, and charcuterie, with medium to full-bodied richness and depth on the palate. It’s a classic, complex, gorgeous wine in the making.
    93-95 points
    JebDunnuck.com

    • 95
    • 93
    • 96
    • Nick's Import
    2015 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reserve
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2025-2026)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine du Pegau Reserve is produced from 85% Grenache, 9% Syrah and 4% Mourvedre, Counoise and other varieties. The grapes are not destemmed, and the natural yeast fermentation is completed in traditional, cement vats before ageing an average of 24 months in old foudres.

    Totally opaque dark red black colour with a deep dark red hue. Pronounced leathery top notes overlay black raspberries and liquorice with trailing black cherry, earth, dried meat and peppered herb scents. Showing much more fruit purity than the nose, the palate is engulfed with rich, opulent black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice flavours which evolve into scorched earth, peppered dried meats, dried herb and leather characters on the back half. Ripe chewy tannins provide a robust structure. Finishes long and concentrated with a lingering leather component.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews....
    Now that it has been in bottle a while, the 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee is looking even better than I projected based on last year's prebottling sample. It's all violets, cherries, subtle allspice and clove and traditional garrigue notes of lavender and thyme. Full-bodied and rich, it's crazy complex, adding hints of tar and black olives on the long, silky finish. It should evolve beautifully over the next two decades.
    96 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (Sept 2018)

    Vivid ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes ripe raspberry, cherry and garrigue, while a suave floral element expands with air. Fleshy, seamless and broad on the palate, offering intense black raspberry and fruitcake flavors that are braced and lifted by a spine of juicy acidity. The floral note builds as the wine opens up and carries through the sweet, strikingly long finish, which leaves behind red fruit liqueur and licorice notes.
    93-95 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous (Mar 2017) 

    The 2015 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Cuvée Réservée is a beautiful, classic wine from the Feraud family that offers powerful notes of blackcurrants, peppered meat, garrigue, and that classic Pégau spice that's hard to find outside of this iconic estate. Possessing a deep ruby/plum color, beautiful complexity, full-bodied richness, and firm tannin, it has closed up slightly since I tasted it from barrel and is going to need 6-12 months of bottle age to bounce back, but this is a concentrated, powerful vintage for this estate that reminds me a slightly improved 2005.
    96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck (Aug 2018)

    • 93
    • 94
    • Nick's Import
    2014 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $180. 00
    Bottle
    $2160.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine du Pegau Reserve is produced from 85% Grenache, 9% Syrah and 4% Mourvedre, Counoise and other varieties. While previously Cuvee Laurence was made from a specific barrel selection, today the wine is same blend as the Reserve except it has been aged in barrel for a longer period of time. The grapes are not destemmed, and the natural yeast fermentation is completed in traditional, cement vats before ageing in old, French oak barrels for an average of 40 months. According to Laurence Feraud, the wine is aged to approximate what might happen with Pegau Reserve after ten years of aging. On average, close to 650 cases are produced each vintage of Domaine du Pegau Cuvee Laurence.

    Other Reviews....
    In years in which there's no Cuvée da Capo, Feraud produces a Cuvée Laurence, which is similar to the Cuvée Reservée, but with extended aging (usually around four years) in foudre. The 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Laurence is the current release, bottled at the end of November 2018, and it's a beauty, marrying leather and cherry notes in a full-bodied but silky, easy-drinking format. A blend of 80% Grenache, 6% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre and 10% other varieties, it should drink well for at least decade.
    94 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (Aug 2019)

    Brilliant ruby-red. A complex, mineral-accented bouquet evokes raspberry and cherry preserves, incense and Moroccan spices, and a bright mineral flourish adds lift. Stains the palate with sappy, appealingly sweet red and blue fruit flavors complemented by suave floral and allspice notes. Shows real energy and spicy thrust on an extremely long, floral-driven finish framed by gentle, fine-grained tannins.
    93 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous (Dec 2019)

    The 2014 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Laurence is more upfront, forward, and charming, with voluptuous notes of garrigue, kirsch, blackberries, and flowers. It too is medium to full-bodied, has overflowing Provençal charm, light tannins, and an outstanding finish. It doesn’t have the concentration of the 2013, but it has more charm and upfront appeal. It should still age for 15-20 years.
    93 points
    Jeb Dunnuck (Aug 2019)

    • 95
    • 97
    • 96
    2019 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau is a hugely successful vintage, marked by scents of sun-warmed stones, garrigue, black cherries and black olives. Full-bodied, rich and velvety, it finishes with tremendous length and softly dusty tannins, which should help ensure a long, positive evolution. Drink 2023 - 2040.
    96+ points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 2022)

    Saturated ruby. Deep-pitched red/blue fruit liqueur aromas pick up suggestions of licorice, pipe tobacco and pungent flowers and herbs with air. In a lush, weighty style, offering expansive black raspberry, cherry cola, singed plum and fruitcake flavors sharpened by a jolt of spiciness on the back half. For all this wine's richness, it's energetic as well, showing solid, spice- and floral-driven persistence on the finish, which is framed by velvety, even tannins. Drink 2026-2036.
    95 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

    If anyone tells you that Châteauneuf is just a big red that’s never elegant, then they need to taste this masterpiece of elegance. So many spicy and savory nuances on the very concentrated but almost perfectly proportioned palate. This is both joyful and serious at the very long, focused finish. Decades of aging potential! Drink or hold.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    • 95
    • 97
    • 96
    2019 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau Magnum (1500ml)
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $399. 00
    Bottle
    $4788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau is a hugely successful vintage, marked by scents of sun-warmed stones, garrigue, black cherries and black olives. Full-bodied, rich and velvety, it finishes with tremendous length and softly dusty tannins, which should help ensure a long, positive evolution. Drink 2023 - 2040.
    96+ points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 2022)

    Saturated ruby. Deep-pitched red/blue fruit liqueur aromas pick up suggestions of licorice, pipe tobacco and pungent flowers and herbs with air. In a lush, weighty style, offering expansive black raspberry, cherry cola, singed plum and fruitcake flavors sharpened by a jolt of spiciness on the back half. For all this wine's richness, it's energetic as well, showing solid, spice- and floral-driven persistence on the finish, which is framed by velvety, even tannins. Drink 2026-2036.
    95 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

    If anyone tells you that Châteauneuf is just a big red that’s never elegant, then they need to taste this masterpiece of elegance. So many spicy and savory nuances on the very concentrated but almost perfectly proportioned palate. This is both joyful and serious at the very long, focused finish. Decades of aging potential! Drink or hold.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    • 96
    • 94
    2018 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The final blend of the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau will include 60% to 65% Grenache, 15% each Mourvèdre and Syrah, with the remainder Cinsault. Boasting complex scents of roses, black tea, raspberries and cherries on the nose, it follows that up with a full-bodied palate that's silky and airy in texture yet flavorful and tremendously long on the finish. It fits perfectly with the Brunier's stated goal of pursuing elegance.
    94-96 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (Aug 2019)

    Traditionally dominated by clairette (45%) and grenache blanc (30%), then roussanne and bourboulenc. The vines average 50+ years and there’s a very restrained nose with dialed-back white-pear and chalk aromas with dried flowers, too. The palate has a super fresh, zippy feel and a long, juicy and attractive core of fresh, salty minerals. The balance is innate and very fluid.
    96 points
    jamessuckling.com

    The flagship of this great estate is the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape and it could quite possibly be one of the longest lived wines in the 2018 vintage, which in general, is a charming, forward vintage geared for consumption in the first decade of life. Revealing a more ruby, almost translucent color as well as a great perfume of wild strawberries, blackberries, Asian spices, peppery garrigue, and flowers, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a building, undeniable sense of minerality, plenty of mid-palate depth, and enough tannins to warrant 2-3 years or bottle age. It has the more upfront, expressive style of the vintage yet my money is on this evolving for 15-20 years.
    94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    • 93
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    2021 Domaine Grand Nicolet Cotes du Rhone
    Cotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 3 - 4 Years (2026-2027)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The Cotes du Rhone blend is produced from predominately Grenache (60%) and Syrah (30%) with some smaller amounts of Carignan (10%) also included. Aged in concrete vats for 8-12 months.
    Deep black dark red colour with a youthful looking bright red purple hue. Leaping from the glass are freshly crushed raspberry and red liquorice aromas followed by some graphite, earth and white pepper notes. Rich dark raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits carry a juicy feel underscored by vibrant acidity and a muscular tannin structure. Inky earth and blackpepper elements linger on the back half. The dryish, slightly grippy finish layered with lashings of succulent fruit.
    Cellar 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • 96
    • Hot Item
    • 91
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Domaine Grand Nicolet Vieilles Vignes Rasteau
    Rasteau, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $32. 99
    Bottle
    $395.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 15.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The first hectare of vines was planted on the Domaine Grand Nicolet property in 1875. The winery was established in 1926 and further plantings of Grenache and Carignan were made, replacing cereal crops. The present owner, Jean Pierre Bertrand purchased the Estate in 1999 which has now expanded to 70 acres of vines.
    A blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah & 15% Mourvedre sourced from vines with an average age of 45 years with some of the Grenache vines more than 90 years old. A portion of the Syrah is aged in 2-3 year old barrels for 12 months with the balance matured in concrete tank vats for 18 months.

    A rich, large scaled Rasteau loaded with dense black fruit framed by muscular tannins.

    Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Filling the nostrils are heady scents of black raspberry and liquorice with some black cherry, scorched earth, dried meat, herbs du Provence and blackpepper notes also evident. The rich, large scaled palate is a concentrate of black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits framed by a stern tannin structure. Notions of scorched earth, dried herbs and peppered meats lie underneath. Dense and opulent yet grippy and muscular in its feel it boasts fantastic power. Finishes with surprising freshness and a long, robust blackpepper infused aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 15.5%

    Other Reviews…..
    The only 2019 presented, the 2019 Rasteau Vieilles Vignes checks in as 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, and 15% Mourvèdre that was 80% destemmed and brought up mostly in concrete tank. This beauty is well worth seeking out and has classic Rasteau dark, meaty fruits as well as roasted herbs, leather, and pepper notes. Showing more freshness and floral notes with time in the glass, it’s full-bodied, has ripe tannins, and outstanding length.
    91-93 points
    JebDunnuck.com

    • 96
    • 95
    • 94
    • Nick's Import
    • Organic
    2019 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Origines
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    A modern styled blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 20% Syrah matured in 50% new French oak for 16 months . Dense inky black in colour with a deep black dark red hue. Potent aromatics of black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry waft through the nostrils followed by herbs du Provence, scorched earth and subtle spicy leather notes. Rich and lusty, the palate is swamped with opulent black cherry, black raspberry and liquorice fruits which overlay a back drop of scorched earth, dried herbs and peppered meats. Terrific power and concentration. A sturdy tannin structure leads into a long, ripe and chewy conclusion.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews....
    Domaine Grand Veneur's holdings are concentrated in the northern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape and just outside of it, in the lieu-dit of Champauvins.
    The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape les Origines is rich and intense, a full-bodied, velvety wine with wow-level concentration. Blackberries and plums line the palate, finishing long, with hints of salted licorice. As usual, it's a blend of approximately 50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 20% Syrah, with the Grenache maturing in tanks and the rest in older barrels. Drink 2023-2035.
    95 points
    Joe Czerwinski – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Origines (50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, and 20% Syrah aged in 50% new oak) is similarly deep purple and offers a straight-up stunning bouquet of ripe cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with chocolate, Asian spices, cured meats, and new leather. A powerful, concentrated, rich 2019, it has a great mid-palate, building yet ripe tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. The purity of fruit here is top notch, and while it's unquestionably a modern style Châteauneuf, the oak is nicely integrated and I suspect will disappear completely with 5-6 years of bottle age.
    94+ points
    JebDunnuck.com

    • 98
    • 97
    • 99
    • Nick's Import
    • Organic
    2019 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $185. 00
    Bottle
    $2220.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    While the Jaume family history in Chateauneuf du Pape dates back to the planting of their first vines in 1826, it was not until 1979 that Alain and Odile Jaume took over the traditionally managed Domaine Grand Veneur. Starting with 4.5 hectares of vines, further purchases over the years followed, and the family now own 16 hectares of vines concentrated in the northern sector of Chateauneuf du Pape and just outside of it, in the lieu-dit of Champauvins. Alain is a firm believer organic viticulture, noting "A great wine is one that is made from healthy grapes and that allows the unique character and complexity of its terroir to be expressed". This ethos is shared by Alain's children Christophe, Sébastien, and Hélène, who now run the estate and who are making some of the finest wines in their history.

    Included in the purchase of the Domaine were plots of incredibly old Grenache, Mourvedre, and Syrah vines, many over 100 years in age and which form the basis of their stunning Vieilles Vignes cuvee. This modern styled example is a tiny production averaging around 350 cases per year. Les Origines is also blessed with old vine stocks, most over 65 years of age, and is equally as polished and pure in style. Finally the Domaine has a long history of white Chateauneuf du Pape production, continued now with their 100% Roussanne cuvee La Fontaine, another rarity with about 200 cases made each year. These are amongst the finest new discoveries from Chateauneuf du Pape that we've encountered in years.

    Impenetrable inky black colour with a deep dark red black hue. Heady black cherry, liquorice and black raspberry aromas soar from the glass complexed by provincial herb, graphite, scorched earth, leather and pepper notes along the way. Extravagantly rich and dense the palate is a super concentrate of black cherry, liquorice and black raspberry fruits which are framed by a robust yet velvety tannin structure. Lurking beneath the absurd levels of richness are scorched earth, dried herbs, new leather and pepper. Ripe and grippy in its mouthfeel it finishes expansive and power packed. Magnificent stuff!
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews....
    The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes is based on 45% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, with the balance Syrah, all destemmed and raised in 55% new French oak. Gorgeous cassis, violet, graphite, fruitcake, and peppery herbs define this brilliant effort, and it's full-bodied, with a pure, seamless texture, wonderful tannins, and one heck of a great finish. This magical 2019 is going to benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age (it's brilliant even today) yet keep for 20 years or more. Châteauneuf du Pape lovers need to have this in their cellar! Drink 2025-2040.
    99 points
    JebDunnuck.com

    Always the densest and richest of the cuvées at this benchmark estate, the 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes features scents of cedar and mocha layered against a backdrop of black cherries. This actually is a bit like Black Forest cake—that ripe, rich and dense, with chocolate and vanilla shadings—but remains dry and savory in the end, with velvety tannins and tremendous length. It's approximately 50% Grenache (aged in tank), plus 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah (both aged in new barrels). Drink 2023-2035.
    97+ points
    Joe Czerwinski – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    • 98
    • 97
    • 99
    • Nick's Import
    • Organic
    2019 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes Magnum (1500ml)
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $399. 00
    Bottle
    $4788.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Cork

    Impenetrable inky black colour with a deep dark red black hue. Heady black cherry, liquorice and black raspberry aromas soar from the glass complexed by provincial herb, graphite, scorched earth, leather and pepper notes along the way. Extravagantly rich and dense the palate is a super concentrate of black cherry, liquorice and black raspberry fruits which are framed by a robust yet velvety tannin structure. Lurking beneath the absurd levels of richness are scorched earth, dried herbs, new leather and pepper. Ripe and grippy in its mouthfeel it finishes expansive and power packed. Magnificent stuff!
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 15%

    Other Reviews....
    The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Vieilles Vignes is based on 45% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, with the balance Syrah, all destemmed and raised in 55% new French oak. Gorgeous cassis, violet, graphite, fruitcake, and peppery herbs define this brilliant effort, and it's full-bodied, with a pure, seamless texture, wonderful tannins, and one heck of a great finish. This magical 2019 is going to benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age (it's brilliant even today) yet keep for 20 years or more. Châteauneuf du Pape lovers need to have this in their cellar! Drink 2025-2040.
    99 points
    JebDunnuck.com

    Always the densest and richest of the cuvées at this benchmark estate, the 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes features scents of cedar and mocha layered against a backdrop of black cherries. This actually is a bit like Black Forest cake—that ripe, rich and dense, with chocolate and vanilla shadings—but remains dry and savory in the end, with velvety tannins and tremendous length. It's approximately 50% Grenache (aged in tank), plus 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah (both aged in new barrels). Drink 2023-2035.
    97+ points
    Joe Czerwinski – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    • 94
    • 93
    • 94
    2020 Domaine La Barroche Chateauneuf du Pape Julien Barrot
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Rich and fleshy, but with excellent tannin structure behind it, this is a very impressive modern style Chateauneuf. Plenty of preserved cherry and black raspberry fruit with notes of rosemary and thyme. Lovely silky texture until you reach the firm finish, which promises many more years of life. A cuvee of 60% grenache, 19% mourvedre, 13% syrah, 5% syrah and 3% other traditional grapes for the region. Drink or hold.
    94 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    I was able to taste two releases from Julien Barrot. Looking first at his 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Julien Barrot, which is a blend of 60% Grenache, 19% Mourvedre, 13% Syrah, and a handful of other varieties, it sports a deeper purple hue to go with a fabulous bouquet of kirsch and blackberry fruits as well as licorice, crushed stone, licorice, and ground pepper. It shines for its balance and elegance on the palate, but still brings substantial fruit as well as structure. It's a thrilling wine that will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and keep for two decades in cold cellars. Drink 2024 - 2046.
    94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    A bold, extroverted, spicy red, bursting with cherry, red currant and subtle cigar box. Delivers a pronounced thread of graphite that gives shape to the lush palate, with elegant but present tannins holding firm on the pepper- and spice-dusted finish. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2024 through 235.
    93 points
    Kristen Bieler - Wine Spectator

    • 93
    • 95
    • 93
    2011 Domaine La Barroche Pure Chateauneuf du Pape Magnum (1500ml)
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $499. 00
    Bottle
    $5988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 17.3%
    Closure: Cork

    Other reviews....
    Bright purple. Room-filling aromas of black and blue fruit liqueur, sandalwood, licorice and candied lavender. Sweet, deeply concentrated and expansive, offering palate-coating blueberry, cherry compote and spicecake flavors and an intense floral pastille quality. Shows striking power on the sappy, penetrating finish, which is firmed by chewy but harmonious tannins. This bruiser weighs in at over 17% alcohol: consider yourself fairly warned.
    93 Points
    Josh Raynolds - Antonio Galloni's Vinous

    Offers a plump core of plum, black cherry and raspberry fruit, lined with singed anise and red licorice notes. Displays a juicy, brambly feel through the finish. Fruit-driven, but delivers ample depth for the vintage. Drink now through 2025.
    93 Points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    An undeniable success in the vintage, and one of the top wines, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Pure is a spectacular blend of almost all Grenache, all from sandy soils and 100+-year-old vines, that was aged all in an older foudre. Rayas-like with its perfumed kirsch, rose petal, dried spice and pepper aromas and flavors, this medium to full-bodied wine has beautiful mid-palate depth, a pure silk texture and building tannin on the finish. Incredibly rich in the vintage, it should age beautifully for 12-15 years or more. Drink 2014-2026.
    These awesome wines are made by the young, yet incredibly talented, Julien Barrot. Now producing just two cuvees from his 32 acres of sandy soils, he first took over the winemaking in 2002 and has since produced one spectacular vintage after another (don’t miss his 2010s!). The winemaking here is very traditional with some stem inclusion and aging all in tank and very old foudre. The wines typically show rich, voluptuous, yet elegant profiles and are relatively accessible in their youth, yet also age gracefully.
    95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

    • 95
    2007 Domaine La Barroche Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2015-2016)
    ABV: 15.9%
    Closure: Cork

    Up until 2003 the Barrot family were relatively unknown producers in Chateauneuf du Pape who sold their wine in bulk to various negociants. It wasn’t until Julian Barrot took over the winemaking responsibilities that the estate began to produce wines under their own label receiving almost instantaneous critical acclaim.

    The average age of the vines at La Barroche is 60 years old with some of the Grenache plantings being over100 years old

    Opaque dark red colour with deep dark red mauve hue. The nose displays aromas of blackberry, liquorice, dark plum and spice. The palate boasts impressive weight with generous flavours of ripe blackberry, black plum and liquorice followed by some spice with underlying meaty characters. Firm, slightly dry tannins but in perfect balance. Long aftertaste of blackberry, liquorice, spice and blackpepper.
    Limited Stocks.
    Cellar 5-6 years (2015-2016)
    Alc 15.9%

    Other Reviews…..
    More structured, backward, and formidably endowed is the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Tradition. Made from a blend of over 80% Grenache and the rest Syrah and Cinsault, with some very old-vine fruit going into the blend, this wine is also aged in a combination of tank and foudre prior to bottling. Deep plum/ruby-colored with a striking nose of loamy soil scents interwoven with exuberant kirsch liqueur notes, licorice, and roasted Provencal herbs, the wine is backward, dense, full-bodied, and very pure, with a brilliant texture and length. This wine will benefit from another 1-2 years of cellaring and drink well for 15+ years.
    92 points
    Robert Parker – The Wine Advocate

    2020 Domaine Lefebvre d'Anselme Trilogie Cotes du Rhone
    Cotes du Rhone, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Domaine Lefebvre d'Anselme is owned and run by Louis and Béatrice, now joined by their Son Marin, and is located in Sabran north west of Lirac. Production consists of whites, reds, and rosé within the Cotes du Rhone and Vin de France appellations, with the stand out wines their pair of Trilogie Cotes du Rhone. The white is a blend of 60% Roussanne and 40% Grenache Blanc, and is fresh and engaging showing the supple texture and complexity of the style. Their Trilogie red is a blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah, and is no ordinary quaffing Cotes du Rhone. Just above medium weight, it's the deft mix of spice and garrigue notes combined with lush and incredibly pure fruit that is so engaging. Don't be surprised to see this evolve gracefully in the cellar for many years ahead. Both are an exciting addition to our shores.

    • 94
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    • Organic
    • Biodynamic
    2020 Domaine Les Aphillanthes Les Galets Cotes du Rhone Villages Plan de Dieu
    Cotes du Rhone Villages, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 20% Mourvède aged in concrete vats for 18 months. Midnight black dark red core with a vibrant dark red hue. Pronounced black raspberry and liquorice aromas infused with herbs du Provence are trailed by incense, scorched earth and peppered meat notes. Showing a touch more weight than the 3 Cepages the medium to full bodied palate is well endowed with succulent black raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruit. Infusions of herbs, subtle scorched earth and pepper lie underneath. Quite polished with a refined tannin structure concluding fresh, amply fruited and long.
    Drink over next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • 93
    • Hot Item
    • Nick's Import
    • Organic
    • Biodynamic
    2020 Domaine Les Aphillanthes 3 Cepages Cotes du Rhone Villages
    Cotes du Rhone Villages, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Domaine Les Aphillanthes is comprised of 30 hectares and located near Gigondas in the Rhone Valley. Farmed organically and biodynamically, proprietors Daniel and Hélène Boulle maintain a high commitment to quality, keeping only the finest 80% of grapes for their own use and selling the rest off. The 2020 releases are not as dark fruited and show more freshness and an energetic feel.
    An equal parts blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Very deep dark red black in colour with a vibrant dark red hue. Seductive aromas of red to dark raspberries, red liquorice and red cherries intermingle with scorched earth and light pepper notes. On the mid weighted palate rich dark raspberry, black cherry and red liquorice fruits make for an intriguing mix of flavours. Infusions of herbs du Provence, scorched earth and blackpepper lend further interest. Slightly chewy tannins finishing with excellent freshness and a long dark raspberry, red liquorice, peppered herb infused aftertaste. Delicious.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • 95
    • Hot Item
    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    • Organic
    • Biodynamic
    2019 Domaine Les Aphillanthes Mille Neuf Cent Vingt et Un Rasteau
    Rasteau, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A long time direct import, Domaine les Aphillanthes is located in the tiny village of Travaillan, just to the north of Châteauneuf du Pape, and is run by Daniel Boulle. Undeniably rich, chewy and powerful renowned Rhone wine critic Jeb Dunnuck describes them as ‘some of the best Cotes du Rhones out there…’.
    A blend of 92% Grenache, 7% Mourvedre and 1% Carignan produced from vines planted in 1921 that yield little, but deliver incredibly concentrated fruit. Very deep dark red black in colour with a dark red hue. Fragrant spicy red to dark raspberry and red cherry scents infused with fresh herbs are married to hints of graphite, dried meats and blackpepper. Rich pepper laced red raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruits show ample power and freshness across the medium to full bodied palate. Provincial herb, crushed volcanic rock and spicy dried meat accents add further nuance. Lending a meaty, robust like feel is bright acidity and muscular tannins. Blackpepper laden, it finishes long and juicy yet a touch grippy.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    Other Reviews….
    The 2019 Rasteau Cuvée 1921 comes from ancient vines (planted in 1921) and is 92% Grenache, 7% Mourvedre, and 1% Carignan, which I believe was raised in tank. It takes plenty of air to open up and offers a striking Provençal bouquet of sweet black cherries, flowery incense, peppery garrigue, lavender, and saddle leather. It actually reminds me of walking through a street market in Vaison-La-Romaine in the south of France with its complex, incredibly satisfying Provençal aromatics. These characteristics all carry over to the palate, where the wine is medium to full-bodied, has a round, layered mouthfeel, ripe yet present tannins, and a great finish. It doesn't have the sheer elegance of, say, the 2016 or 2010, but it's a beauty. Give it a decant if drinking any time soon. It should put a smile on your face any time over the coming decade or more. Drink 2023-2034.
    93 points
    JebDunnuck.com

    • 94
    • Biodynamic
    • Organic
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Domaine Les Aphillanthes Les Galets Cotes du Rhone Villages Plan de Dieu
    Cotes du Rhone Villages, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Stelvin

    A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvède aged in concrete vats for 18 months. Black as night at its heart with a bright dark red black tinged hue. Soaring through the olfactory senses with a great sense of vibrancy are spicy dark raspberry and red liquorice scents which meld into Provincial herb, scorched earth and peppered meat notes. Delicious and bright, the mid weighted palate has juicy red to dark raspberry and red liquorice fruits flowing across it with infusions of Provincial herbs, subtle scorched earth and peppered meat nuances lying underneath. Gently chewy but otherwise polished tannins finishing with great freshness and a long pepper laced red to dark fruited aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

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Grenache: the workhorse of the Southern Rhone.

While Grenache has lost favour to Shiraz in Australia, in the Southern Rhone, Shiraz plays second fiddle. Here Grenache remains the basis for beautifully balanced, frequently exuberant reds with a strong Mediterranean influence. Apart from Grenache, twenty two other varieties are permitted throughout the entire Rhone Appellation, though generally no more than ten are employed in blends.

Rhone wine labels and the appellation system.

As in other French wine regions, the Rhone's Appellations d'Origine Controlees (AOCs) rely on sets of rules based around the concept of 'terroir' (the interaction of soil and climate on wine quality) as well as specific local and historic practises. Essentially, the whole system is organised as a pyramid. The further you climb towards the summit, the more restrictive the criteria for production, the more prestigious the terroir and the better the wines should be.

The 'Cotes du Rhone' AOC is the base of the pyramid. The second level is the 'Cotes du Rhone Villages' AOC which follows slightly different rules. Out of ninety 'communes' allowed to produce Cotes Du Rhone Villages, eighteen of them are allowed to step up the hierarchy ladder with the mention of the village name on their labels (e.g. 'Rasteau', 'Vacquerays' etc.), provided they respect the more restrictive yields as well as other analytical requirements at harvest. Finally, at the top of the pyramid, we find the local appellations, for which the term 'Crus' is the norm. Here yields generally cannot exceed 35Hls/Ha and strict conditions for cultivation apply. Chateauneuf Du Pape is one such Cru.

Buy Chateauneuf du Pape online.

Chateauneuf du Pape forms the apex of the Southern Rhone's appellation pyramid. The extraordinary and long-standing reputation of its wines is such that in the 14th century, the Papacy in Avignon favoured the village as their summer residence, expanding the vineyards to suitable surrounding areas. To this day, each bottle of Chateauneuf bears the coat-of-arms of the city of Avignon, with its two crossed keys, those of Saint Peter, the first Pope. Seven Popes later, the rigour established in those times has survived the centuries. In fact, Chateauneuf became the working model for France's earliest appellation laws. Under the rules, 13 different varieties are permitted, though Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah and Cinsault dominate over Counoise, Clairette and Bourboulenc.

We continue to import wines from the Southern Rhone, handpicking from the the very best vintages and tasting and rating most of our selections to further guide you in your choice. When you buy Rhone wines online, you can have them shipped to most of Australia.