The Châteauneuf-du-Pape 'Reserve' is an utterly fascinating wine from Le Clos du Caillou. The Reserve is only made in the best vintages, and the 2016 is composed of 65% Grenache and 35% Mourvèdre sourced from the estate’s oldest vines, in the lieu-dits La Guigasse and Pignan which contain mostly sandy soils and vines range from 60 to 80 years old. The fruit is hand-harvested, destemmed and fermented on indigenous yeasts in upright wooden fermenters prior to being aged for 14 months mostly in demi-muid (600L; 30% new and 70% 10-year) and 12% in clay amphorae. The final result is a thing of beauty as it opens to simply gorgeous aromas of ripe raspberries and dark cherries which are joined by spring florals, smoke, meat, minerals and a dash of pepper. On the palate this continues to impress with its gorgeous silky texture, remarkable balance and outstanding concentration with a deep core of beautifully ripe fruits expanding seamlessly though the wine. It shows stunning freshness and purity through the ultra-long finish. The 2016 Reserve has it all, and although its noting short of brilliant in its youth, it will need some time before it shows its best. This possesses the rare characteristics to ultimately become a perfect wine when it hits its full stride.
Rating | Value | Drink |
99 |
$160 |
2023-2043 |
Country | Region | Appellation |
France |
Rhône Valley |
Châteauneuf-du-Pape |
Editor | Issue | Importer |
J. D'Angelo |
January, 2019 |
NA |