Robert Parker 90 Points!
James Morrison 91 Points!
Robert Parker 90 Points!"The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Tradition (50% Grenache, 31% Syrah, and the rest Mourvedre and Cinsault) exhibits a deep ruby/purple color along with a gorgeously sweet perfume of cassis, black cherries, smoke, roasted herbs, and licorice. It is soft, round, full-bodied, opulent, and accessible, which is somewhat out of character for this virile/masculine and tannic vintage. The 2005 Tradition should drink beautifully for 10-15 years.
Chateau de la Nerthe, the only true Chateau in Chateauneuf du Pape, owns 225 acres of vines. Under the brilliant direction of Alain Dugas, this estate continues to carry on the tradition as one of the benchmark estates of Chateauneuf du Pape. With a history going back to 1784, this is among the oldest properties of the region. It was even referred to by the famous French poet, Frederic Mistral, who gave his name to the fierce, persistent winds of the region. This is the only Chateauneuf du Pape estate to use 100% new small oak barrels for their top wine, the majestic Cuvee des Cadettes, which goes against the prevailing philosophy of aging most red varietals in older oak. The red cuvees have long been top-notch, but the white wines have also been brilliant over recent vintages."
The Wine Advocate, Oct 2007
James Morrison 91 Points!"The Southern Rhône has capped off its trifecta of consecutive excellent vintages with the best yet—2005. Elegant for the vintage; with a silky texture to the raspberry, boysenberry and plum fruit, all layered with sweet spice, mesquite and fruitcake notes. Has a long, supple finish. Drink now through 2020."
The Wine Spectator, Apr 2008
Country:
France
Region:
France- Rhone Valley Southern
Variety:
Wine Red - Grenache
Size:
750mL