Assorted Châteauneuf-du-Pape Tasting Lot — Bosquet des Papes "Cuvée Tradition," Beauchene "Grande Réserve," Charbonnière "Cuvée Mourre des Perdrix," Vieux Lazaret & Lesec "Les Galets Blonds"

“Saturated ruby. Bright raspberry and candied cherry aromas are fresh and strikingly pure. Sweet and silky, with intense red fruit flavors, impressive focus and fine tannins. Finishes with very persistent red fruit flavor. (JR)” (01/2007)

“Very juicy and round, with lots of raspberry ganache, plum and kirsch flavors followed by hints of pepper, dark tobacco and licorice on the fresh finish. (JM)” (11/2008)

“Similar to the ’07, the 2006 Domaine de la Charbonnière Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Mourre des Perdrix show big, upfront and fruit driven aromatics of blackberry, cassis, graphite, spice, chocolate and violets that carry over onto the palate. Medium to full bodied, the wine shows considerable finesse and purity, a streamlined, silky texture, ripe fruit and a long finish.” (09/2009)

“Quite a dark, full red robe; there is plenty of depth in a promising bouquet, with variety in the offing. Its red fruits hold a little mystery, and a tight, mainly Grenache composition. The palate has a suave outset that reminds of the Cuvée du Papet (tasted blind), with a very good sequence and flow of red fruit. Has a pretty silken texture, is a pleaser with potential and good balance. Its tannins are well wrapped, but add late dimension and give the finish some kick. Has a peppery aftertaste in a wide finale. Once it settles, this can be very good indeed. *5 Stars*” (11/2007)

“Now that it's in the bottle, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape les Galets Blonds shows lovely notes of garrigue on the nose, backed by sun-warmed stones, ripe cherries, caramel and mocha. About one-fifth is matured in barriques, and two-fifths whole clusters were utilized this year. It's full-bodied and velvety textured yet retains a sense of delicacy and elegance one the long finish. (JC)” (09/2019)