Chapoutier Chateauneuf Du Pape Barbe Rac 2015 (750ML)

96 WA / 96 JD / 96 WS / 96 WCI / 94 JS / 93-95 VM / 16.5+ JR

The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac is 100% Grenache, but this parcel is located on the western edge of the appellation, in what Chapoutier describes as a hot, dry location—even in the context of the appellation. From vines planted in 1901-1902, this is a dense, plummy wine, oozing with concentrated fruit and even turning a bit fudge-like on the long, supple finish. I don't expect it to age quite as well as the Croix de Bois, but it's still a thrilling wine.-Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate

The 2015 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Barbe Rac comes from a single vineyard on the western side of the appellation. Made from 100% Grenache and brought up all in concrete tank, it offers a gorgeous bouquet of strawberry jam, garrigue, pepper and dried meat. Full-bodied, powerful, elegant and seamless on the palate, with a savory, layered, complex profile, give bottles 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 10-15. Jeb Dunnuck

Very silky and refined, but with ample depth and drive, as the core of kirsch, plum sauce and raspberry coulis flavors is focused and lengthy, while light tea, incense, mineral and shiso leaf notes dart throughout. The long finish has well-embedded, latent grip. Should cruise in the cellar. Best from 2020 through 2040. 770 cases made.-James Molesworth, Wine Spectator

Elegant, fresh and silky, with lush, sweet fruits, the kirsch has this outstanding purity to the cherry oriented fruit. The wine smells, feels and tastes of spicy, peppery, fresh kirsch from start to finish. Produced from 100% old vine Grenache, the wine has the backbone to age and develop quite well. This is just a fabulous style of wine.-Jeff Leve, Wine Cellar Insider

Terrific, red berries and red plums with an array of wild, mountain herbs on offer. There’s a spicy, almost peppery thread through the palate. The tannins arrive in pastry-like layers. Superb. From organically grown grapes. Drink in 2020. - James Suckling

Lurid ruby. An explosively perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red berries, candied lavender, incense and Asian spices. Concentrated raspberry, cinnamon, floral pastille and rhubarb flavors stain the palate and show an alluring sweetness and strong energy on the back half. Plays power off finesse with a deft hand and finishes extremely long and spicy; well-knit tannins make a late appearance.-Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media

100% Grenache. Grapes are destemmed. Vinification and ageing for 16 months all in concrete tanks. pH 4, TA 4 g/l.
Tasted blind. Crimson. Broad, ripe, fresh, black-cherry notes with balancing acidity and nothing out of kilter or overdone. Pretty hot finish but there is lots of ripe fruit here. Slightly dry end for the moment. -Jancis Robinson