Simon Field | Rich purple, just the faintest hints of brick; the nose is oakier than some; figs, chocolate, and whispers from a Palladian pine forest. As in all the best examples, the palate is broad and potent, yet firmly structured, the anchoring tannins holding the line more obviously than the acidity. The length and power on the finish confirm quality and aging potential. A delightful vintage for this village. | 92

Andrew Jefford | Dark, opaque black-red. A softer, sandier, more stealthy style of scent compared to its Châteauneuf peers, with licorice and mace spice. The pure fruits are perhaps a little more recessive here than among its peers; a touch of orange or tangerine here, too? Aromatically, you sense that this will be silky and supple. This is indeed so—smooth, silky, fine-textured, graceful, with ample aromatic refinements. There’s red fruit, as well as black, dark root spice, thyme, and juniper; some black chocolate and black olive, too. Ample tannins, though much softer in style than for its peers, and once again much lower acidity than in Gigondas. Grown on sand? Maybe, maybe not, but beautifully extracted by its vinifier. Anyway, outstanding Châteauneuf-du Pape and the proof that 16% wine can be graceful and comely even without notable acidity. | 95

David Williams | Broad-shouldered, brawny, a well-dressed alcoholic, but it’s the spirity breath you remember, rather than the flourish of dense kirsch fruit. No charm; it’s all a bit clumsy or fat-fingered. | 84