Domaine Du Pegau CdP Cuvee Reservee 2018 (750ML)

96 DE / 95 VM / 92-95 WA / 91-94 JD

Grown on varied lieux-dits around the appellation on a mix of soils, this was fermented in concrete then aged for 24 months in foudre. All whole bunch, which is evidenced by the pleasantly stemmy aromatics. Very full-bodied and concentrated, savoury despite the oak, with bay leaf and thyme. Very tannic, quite hard on the palate in fact. It's well balanced despite the alcohol, thanks to its concentration and intensity. It's an outlying style due to its darkness, hardness and brooding character. It will be fantastic in time however. But wait. Drinking Window 2026 - 2037 - Matt Walls, Decanter

Brilliant ruby. Smoky, mineral-tinged aromas of raspberry, cherry preserves, garrigue and exotic spices show excellent clarity and acquire a gamy nuance as the wine opens up. At once rich and energetic in character, offering well-concentrated red berry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors and a sweetening touch of candied lavender. Shows fine definition and finishes gently, spicy and impressively long, with repeating florality and steadily building tannins. - Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media

The 2018 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Réservée is full-bodied but quite approachable and easy to drink, loaded with black cherries and plummy fruit and tinged with licorice. A blend of 80% Grenache, 6% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre and 10% other permitted varieties, it finishes long and silky. - JC, Wine Advocate