Marcoux CdP Vieilles Vignes 2015 (750ML)

96-98 VM / 96 JD / 95 WA / 95 WCI / 94 DE

(fermented in concrete vats and then aged in concrete and neutral oak barrels) Lurid ruby. A heady, expressive bouquet evokes fresh raspberry, cherry compote, potpourri, licorice and Asian spices, while a bright mineral flourish builds in the glass. Sweet, palate-staining red fruit liqueur, lavender pastille and spicecake flavors show outstanding depth as well as vivacity thanks to a core of juicy acidity. Plays power off finesse with a deft hand and finishes incredibly long, sappy and pure; velvety tannins emerge very slowly. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see this monumental wine turn out to be the star of the 2015 vintage in the Rhône Valley, south as well as north.-Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media

Similar in style, yet with additional depth and density, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is a sensational effort and one of the gems in the vintage. Kirsch liqueur, blueberries, spice, and incense notes all develop in the glass, and this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, silky, fine tannin impeccable balance and a great finish. As with the traditional cuvée, it's as seamless as they come, and while it's already impossible to resist, it's going to keep for 15+ years.-Jeb Dunnuck

The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (about 97% Grenache) was entirely destemmed. According to Sophie Armenier, its alcohol level is a whopping 16+%, but it was completely concealed by the wine's intricate spice complexities. Licorice, cola, cinnamon, clove and allspice all interweave with cherries to form a silky web that glides across the palate and into a long, long finish.  - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate

Silky and elegant, with salty tannins, and sweet, ripe, juicy red fruits that show off their purity easily. Not a wine of density, but of balance, silkyness and harmony. The wine is made from 100% old vine Grenache.-Jeff Leve, Wine Cellar Insider

Glistening, bright fruit aroma. Tasty, refined,sleek and wholesome palate: lovely finesse here.-John Livingstone-Learmonth, Decanter