Santa Duc Chateauneuf du Pape Habeus Papam 2016 (1.5L)

95-97 WA / 95 JS / 93 JD / 92-94 VM

Still in foudre, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Habemus Papam looks to have softened considerably since I tasted it last year. Floral-herbal notes accent ripe cherries, while the palate boasts a wonderfully rich, creamy texture. Full-bodied, with supple tannins, this tour de force is long, silky and elegant. JC - The Wine Advocate

Very suave, intense and detailed wine with an array of ripe, red fruit, dark berries in the blue-to-purple spectrum and a swathe of wild herbs. Gently spicy play of oak. The palate has a very composed and focused feel. Long, fine, even and plush tannins. Drink in 2020. - James Suckling

The 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Habemus Papam is another fresh, medium to full-bodied, classic wine from this estate. Giving up ample red and black fruits, ground pepper, new leather, and garrigue-like aromas and flavors, it’s nicely textured, has remarkable purity, and ripe tannins. Drink it any time over the coming 10-15 years. - Jeb Dunnuck

Limpid ruby. Deep, smoke-accented dark berry and violet pastille scents are energized by a jolt of peppery spice. Smoky, sweet and broad in the mouth, offering concentrated boysenberry and cherry liqueur flavors and a hint of candied licorice. Shows very good power and energy and finishes with excellent persistence, featuring velvety, late-arriving tannins and a discreet touch of gaminess. - Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media