Tasting Notes, Reviews & Ratings                 

Domaine de Cristia Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes 2006

ITEM # DCCDPVV06

Varietal: 100% Grenache

Viticulture & Vinification Notes: The vines, ranging in age from 80 to 100 years old, are planted in the clayey sand soils of the lieu-dit “Cristia.” The grapes are destemmed, inoculated with indigenous yeasts, fermented and macerated in concrete vats, and aged in used (2-3 years old) oak barrels for 18 months.

Tasting Notes From The Winemaker: Deep purple color. A seducing bouquet which evokes blackberries, liquorice and mocha. A mouth which explodes with a mixture of black cherries and blackcurrant liqueur.

Robert Parker: 93 Points. The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is one of the vintage’s stars. An impressive, deep ruby/purple color is followed by notes of meat juices, roasted herbs, lavender, blackberries, and kirsch. Surprisingly full-bodied and dense for the vintage, it possesses noteworthy purity, good acidity, and sweet tannin. Drink it over the next 10-12 years. As I have indicated over the last few years, this is one of the superb newer producers in Chateauneuf du Pape. Their cellars are in the village of Courthezon, which is located adjacent to the very northeast sector of the appellation. Their 2007s are spectacular wines. This superb Chateauneuf du Pape producer also fashions tasty Cotes du Rhones and Cotes du Rhone-Villages meant to be consumed during their first few years of life.

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