2006 M. Chapoutier, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Barbe Rac 1x75cl

Vinous 89+

Bright red. Brooding, slow-to-open bouquet of cherry, dark berries and tobacco. Meaty and powerful, with chewy dark fruit flavors and dusty tannins. Far more difficult to read today than the Croix de Bois. This needs time to stretch out but there’s clearly serious material here. [Josh Raynolds, 01/01/2009]

Wine Advocate 94

The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac reveals a rich, sumptuous perfume of root vegetables, blackberries, cassis, melted licorice, incense, and spice. Chapoutier’s single vineyard Chateauneuf du Papes represent two different areas of the appellation, with the Barbe Rac coming from the western corridor, not far from the Plateau of Mont-Redon. Chapoutier has adjusted the manner in which he ages these cuvees, as they are now completely aged in tank. It is incredibly full-bodied for a 2006, with superb concentration as well as excellent length and purity. Drink this beauty over the next 15+ years. Both the Barbe Rac and Croix de Bois are 100% Grenache. Michel Chapoutier continues to expand his considerable empire throughout southern France. Recently he purchased Jean Marchand’s Domaine des Pontifes in Chateauneuf du Pape, so I would not be surprised to see a third luxury cuvee of Chateauneuf du Pape emerge from this passionate biodynamic producer of Rhone wines. The less expensive Chapoutier offerings continue to increase in quality. Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847)-604-8900 [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 30/10/2008]

Anticipated maturity: 2008-2023