Scott@Mister A’s-San Diego

9.5

2007 vintage. Still plenty of color. Well-integrated nose. That old-school Napa flavor palette of black olive and eucalyptus riding atop the plummy cherry thrusters. Even a little cocoa powder showing up in a cameo appearance. Structural foundation holding up nicely with an easy 5-10 years of continuity. Drinking absolutely great right now. Reduced punch/grip but very harmonious. — 2 years ago

Jay Kline

9.4

I’ve enjoyed the wines of Chateauneuf-du-Pape for almost 20 years and, along with a few DOCG’s in Italy, it’s one of the regions I have the most experience with. That being said, I’ve become very judicious with my buying over the last 5 years or so, concentrating on a small handful of producers that I’ve naturally gravitated towards. Domaine Charvin is one of those. No destemming, aged in concrete, no luxury cuvée, modest pricing. They’re just so old school and I just love it. The 2017 Charvin Rouge pours a deep garnet color with a near opaque core; medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, it’s initially a bit reticent but changes dramatically with about 15min of air at which point it begins to really strut. First with bruised strawberries and whole fields of garrigue. With a little more coaxing, ripe brambles, spiced meat, and lavender join the party. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannins (which seem to build with air), medium acid and fairly high alcohol though it never felt like a hot mess. In fact, the wine is beautifully balanced with ample structure providing a foundation for the abundance of fruit: red and black brambly fruit, with Herb de Provence, espresso and a touch of leather and dark olive. The finish is long and satisfying. A lovely Charvin that should deliver in style well past 2030 — 2 years ago

Timothy Schmidt

9.2

A good find at the Mother Outlaw’s place!!! Tasty aged Shiraz. — 7 years ago