M. Chapoutier - Barbe Rac, CDP, 2013, 750ml

Vinification:
Grenache, being sensitive to oxidation, vinifications are made in concrete tanks. Fermenting lasts about 3 weeks (which allows a polymerization of tannins)with a temperature which varies between 30 and 33°C. Only the free-run wine is used in this single vineyard. Ageing: In vats for around 16 months. 15.5% alc.

My favorite wine in the lineup was the 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac. Coming from a plot of old vines located on the western side of the appellation and made from 100% Grenache, it offers vintage-defying levels of blackberry, currants, licorice and smoked herbs on the nose. These carry to a full-bodied, inky colored Châteauneuf du Pape that has a superb, voluptuous texture, excellent mid-palate depth and sweet tannin, all of which suggest it will evolve for 10-15 years. Drink 2015-2040.

Score: 94, Jeb Dunnuck,
Wine Advocate (221), October 2015