2005 Clos des Papes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rouge 1x750ml

Vinous 95

(65% grenache, 20% mourvedre, 10% syrah and the rest "the others") Deep red. Explosively perfumed nose offers a profound bouquet of red and dark berries, licorice, incense and musky underbrush. Broad, palate-staining raspberry and blackcurrant flavors are enveloped in velvety tannins, with suave anise and Asian spices adding complexity. A huge but balanced-even graceful-wine, with a finish that refuses to let go of the palate. This remarkable young Chateauneuf has the sheer sex appeal to enjoy young but also possesses superb cellaring potential. I’d hold mine. [Josh Raynolds, 01/01/2008]

Robert Parker 94

Hitting a natural 15.5% alcohol, Paul-Vincent’s 2005 Châteauneuf du Pape is decidedly more elegant and finesse-styled now than it was on release, where it was more dominated by its tannic structure. Still a youthful ruby color, it offers up a perfumed bouquet of kirsch and blackberry-like fruits, licorice, incense, Asian spice and forest floor. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied, seamless, elegant wine that’s lost all of its baby fat, yet still has a core of sweet fruit, fine tannin and a balanced, harmonious feel. It’s not a powerhouse, and is drinking nicely today, with another decade of longevity. [01/02/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025