2013 Chateauneuf du Pape might be a challenging vintage. But several producers managed to make some very nice wines in a great style with freshness, purity and charm.
On Grenache… “If Grenache doesn’t get FULLY ripe, it holds no interest. One can make some skinny-ass Syrah, which is en vogue among some. Syrah under those conditions might still hold some odd interest. But that is not the case with Grenache.”
Every vintage offers surprises and 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape is no exception. There are some true gems with a few wines that are so good, they transcend the vintage.
2012 Chateauneuf du Pape wines are lush, forward, open, elegant, silky and stylish. They deserve to be tasted and enjoyed while waiting for some of the more recent big vintages to come around.
2011 Chateauneuf du Pape wines are approachable young. Yet the best wines, some of which are the special cuvees has the ability to age and develop additional complexities and nuances.
Every vintage is unique. Fortunately, there are vintages that offer complexities and personality, that do not require cellar time which can be enjoyed in their youth, for their fresh, vibrant forward qualities.
Perfectly ripe fruits, high levels of concentration, lush, rich textures and long, expansive finishes with the ability to age and evolve best describes 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape!