ESF

9.1

very pleasant, elegant, all kinds of cherry, raspberry and red currant on nose, some red florals, spice and an herbal note. great varietal typicity w/out carbonics - legit, classic style, has many more years ahead, mild tannins and decent acidity make this versatile for food options — 17 days ago

JKT

9.0

Just drinking it through foot yumminess — 3 months ago

Jay Kline

9.3

Poured into a decanter about an hour prior to service; enjoyed over the course of an hour. The 2010 pours a hazy garnet/purple color with a translucent core; medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is vinous with notes of tart, ripe and desiccated fruits: blackberries, black licorice, horse blanket, some animale, mushrooms, forest floor, rocky earth. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+. It has been eight years since I last enjoyed this vintage of the VV and it continues to age with a lot of grace. Drink now through 2030+. — 4 months ago

Matthew W.

9.1

Must be the Ahi Tuna that elevated the wine 😛 — 4 days ago

Tegan Marriott

9.2

Goodness gracious seriously fresh& vibrant Gamay for my Tues. — 2 months ago

Guy Acheson

9.2

AGD Montreal 2025
Au Pied de Cochon — 4 months ago

Jay Kline

9.1

Popped and poured; enjoyed over the course of a few hours. The 2012 pours a hazy garnet color with a translucent core; medium viscosity with light staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of tart and ripe mixed fruits: raspberry, pomegranate, strawberry, Bing cherry, licorice, horse blanket, forest floor and rocky minerals. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium tannins and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. This finish is long. A wild wine; literally and figuratively. Teeters on the edge of being too careless but it doesn’t cross over into the realm of gerbil cage. Drink now. — 5 months ago

Jack Petras

9.4

Having this 2022 with a Montreal grilled pork chop and a fresh local tomato basil mozzarella salad and it has been one of the perfect pairings of all time. The wine is a little young but comes into its own with the pork. Black petrified forest stones with just picked raspberries and tart morello cherries. A hint of Bret in the background which enh the interest without ever competing with the fruit and wet stones. Outstanding with at least 4 years ahead if it — a month ago

Tom Casagrande

9.1

A surprisingly gorgeous evening in DC tonight at a favorite classic bistro. This Giggie has loads of ripe fruit, but is drinking really well already. Very soft, decent acids. Some savory notes. The alcohol (15%) pooks through on the back half of the palate. But it was served a little warmer than I’d like, so that probably amplified it. — 2 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Mas Grange Blanche Châteauneuf-du-Pape “La Font des Bessounes” 2020
Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Rhône Valley, France 🇫🇷

Overview
A traditional Southern Rhône blend featuring Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, among other permitted varietals of the appellation. The 2020 vintage is considered one of balance and finesse, producing wines with both fruit concentration and freshness.

Aromas & Flavors
Intensely aromatic with red and blue bramble fruits, black pepper, mulling spices, licorice, and hints of tobacco and biscuits. On the palate, it’s medium-to-full-bodied, showing layers of cherry, blackberry, and subtle earthy notes, wrapped with freshness and minimal oak influence.

Mouthfeel
Structured yet approachable, with balanced acidity and polished tannins. Displays good complexity, moderate weight, and a long, savory finish that speaks to the terroir.

Winemaking Notes
Hand-harvested grapes, vinified traditionally with careful extraction to preserve both fruit character and elegance. Aged with minimal oak to highlight purity and balance.

Food Pairing
Pairs wonderfully with roast lamb, duck breast, mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses. Its spice and structure also work well with Mediterranean herb-driven dishes.

Verdict
A well-structured and gratifying Châteauneuf-du-Pape, showcasing the elegance of the 2020 vintage. Balanced, aromatic, and age-worthy—drink now or cellar for added depth. — 5 months ago