Domaine de Cristia Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes 2005

Professional Ratings

• 97 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  This is a modern-day classic of Chateauneuf du Pape. The third cuvee is the monumental 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, which is made from 100% Grenache, and aged in neutral but small oak barrels. Black and saturated blue/purple in color, with an extraordinary nose of incense, flowers, melted licorice, blackberry, and creme de cassis, it comes closest, to my mind, to resembling the Marcoux Vieilles Vignes in its floral aromatics and sumptuous texture. This is stunningly rich wine that will benefit from 2-4 years of cellaring and keep 20-25 years. It's a brilliant homage to the greatness of old-vine Grenache!
  Range: 95-97+
• 95 Wine Spectator
  Very fleshy and flamboyant, with well-rounded boysenberry confiture, fig paste and crushed currant flavors laced with fruitcake, red and black licorice and aged tobacco notes. The long finish has the dense grip of the vintage, with great drive as well.