Andrew Jefford: Dense black-red. Sweet, warm, refined, and harmonious. Has all the classicism that you want, but (in its astonishing cohort) is just a little bit polite, restrained, and well behaved. A touch of the coffee, which I’m never thrilled to see in Châteauneuf, too. But if you’re fed up with impolite, Yahoo Châteauneuf, this may be for you. The palate is all of that, too, but now I like it much more; it’s smooth and urbane and doesn’t rock you to your socks, but gosh, this would drink so, so well. Feel the palate silk; taste the astonishing depth, but also taste how well those forces have been ordered and marshaled. Fine raw materials, masterful élevage, total classicism; it all adds up to a wonderful Châteauneuf. 17.5

Simon Larkin : Evidently ripe, with a bold, ripe berry fruit expressed on the nose, with hints of garrigue. On the palate, this is glossy, textural, and bold. Heady is acceptable in the context of the vintage, but this example isn’t excessive. Red and black fruits meld with a degree of precision. A bold example, with notes of kirsch, cherry liqueur. The finish reveals noticeable alcoholic warmth, but the impression is nowhere near disjointed. I think this is an example that will evolve and improve, losing some of its youthful vigor. It is nonetheless a bold, assertive example. This finishes cool and poised. 15.5

John Livingstone-Learmonth: Dark robe; black berry with raspberry fruit aroma, with an agreeably cool air to it. There is a laurel, local-herbs note, but overall it is restrained for now, needs a little time to project more. The palate is a tight weave for now, the shape upright, based on the coolness of the vintage’s nights—hence it is sealed, not showing a full, sunny nature as yet. The tannins are crisp, the late fruit dark. Has the toothsome qualities of 2010, just needs time. Quite easy to underestimate its quality. 2016 to 2028/31. 17