CDP Barbe-Rac, Maison M. Chapoutier 2007

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac, which comes from the western part of the appellation from a vineyard planted in 1901 and 1902, is, like the Croix de Bois, 100% Grenache aged totally in cement tanks. It boasts a dense purple color along with a sumptuous nose of black raspberries, black currants, incense, camphor, licorice, and garrigue. Full-bodied, voluptuously-textured, exuberant, rich, and pure with stunning depth and concentration, it can be drunk young or cellared for 15-20 years. Chapoutier's holdings in Chateauneuf du Pape continue to grow as he purchased the Bois Dauphin estate recently. He now owns 100 acres (all planted with Grenache) in the appellation (all of them biodynamically farmed).

Reminiscent of the 1990, the dense ruby/purple-tinged 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac is an astonishingly full-bodied, opulent, flamboyant wine displaying an extraordinary bouquet of incense, lavender, kirsch, resin, the seaweed wrappers used in sushi restaurants, and licorice. 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. Made from a minuscule 10 hectoliters per hectare, it reveals great texture, an amazing finish, and riveting overall balance and purity. It should hit its peak in 3-5 years, and last for 20-25. Both the Barbe Rac and Croix de Bois are 100% Grenache.