Domaine de Cristia Vieilles Vignes CDP 2016 (750ML)

99 JD / 95 WS / 95 VM / 94-96 WA

One of the gems in the vintage is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes, and it’s about as beautiful an example of old vine Grenache as I could imagine. Sporting a deep purple color as well as a huge perfume of blackberries, black raspberries, garrigue, crushed flowers, and exotic spices, it hits the palate with a wealth of fruit, a stacked mid-palate, awesome purity of fruit, and a finish that won’t quit. Made from 100% old vine Grenache from the sandy soils of the Cristia lieu-dit, aged in one-third new barrels, it has a certain accessibility even today but will be at its best in 2-4 years and keep for 15+. It’s the finest wine ever made by Baptiste and readers need to find bottles of this elixir! - Jeb Dunnuck

Ripe, but bright and fresh, with a lively mix of raspberry, red currant and bitter plum coulis flavors streaming in, pulling light tea, singed sandalwood and anise notes along. Shows lovely detail and well-embedded acidity through the finish. Drink now through 2035. James Molesworth, Wine Spectator

Limpid ruby-red. Smoke- and spice-accented aromas of cherry liqueur, Chambord and candied flowers, along with a subtle floral quality that gains strength with air. Energetic red berry and bitter cherry flavors are complemented by mocha and licorice flourishes that take a sweeter turn on the back half. Youthful tannins lend grip to a long, focused finish that strongly echoes the cherry and floral notes. - Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media

I didn't taste the straight Chateauneuf du Pape from 2016, but the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes certainly looked special out of a one-year-old demi-muid. It's a big, plush, dark-fruited wine, with some chocolate notes and a velvety feel. CZ – The Wine Advocate