Tasting Notes
Vinous 90
Prominent notes of tobacco, strawberry compote, loamy earth and a dash of melted licorice introduce the 2009 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux. With ripe tannins providing gentle structure, the full-bodied 2009 has entered its prime drinking window, where I suspect it will remain for the next five years.
Anticipated maturity: 2024-2029
Wine Advocate 94
The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blockbuster. Deep ruby-colored and a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and the rest other permitted varieties, it offers up a big, sweet bouquet of kirsch, blackberries, ground herbs, pepper and licorice. Full-bodied, textured and layered, it has terrific fruit intensity, no hard edges and a great finish. Drink this hedonistic beauty anytime over the coming decade or more.
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027