2011 Domaine Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape

“A big jump up and one of the stars of the vintage, the 2011 Domaine Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape is classic Charvin, showing loads of spice, pepper, herbs de Provence, and clean minerality on the nose.” (09/2012)

“Looking at the Chateauneufs, and a gorgeous example of the vintage as well as one of the top wines, Laurent’s 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape (85% Grenache and the balance Syrah, Mourvedre and Vaccarese) offers up an elegant, seamless profile with pretty aromas and flavors of sweet cherries, licorice, rose petal, ground pepper and garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, pure and with building richness, it has a glossy, textured profile on the palate that’s hard to resist. While approachable, it has the mid-palate, freshness and overall balance to evolve gracefully for 10-12 years. Drink now-2023. (JD)” (10/2013)

“Brilliant ruby-red. Complex, seductive bouquet of raspberry and cherry preserves, pungent herbs and fresh lavender. Juicy, penetrating and pure, with superb clarity and lift to its sweet red fruit flavors. Silky tannins give shape to the finish, which clings with outstanding tenacity and resonating florality. I find this elegant Chateauneuf extremely easy to drink now but it has the depth and balance to reward at least another six years of patience. (JR)” (01/2014)

“A densely packed red, offering a ganache frame to the singed orange peel, tobacco, fresh espresso and mulled fig and currant fruit flavors. Strong juniper and bittersweet cocoa notes line the finish. A gutsy style, showing good cut. (JM)” (07/2014)