Châteauneuf-du-Pape Red Rhône Blend

Really enjoy the complexity on this one, seems like perfect age.

1986! This was stunning!

Part of a cellar acquisition where storage was perfect for 20+yrs before the cellar’s upkeep was disregarded and left to a non-climate controlled temp for a few years. All bottles look pristine (doesn’t mean the wine will be).

Faded ruby color in the glass. Distinct herbal (almost cabbage) aromatic with faint notes of rose petals, kirsch, and earth. The wine has more depth than expected (as well as tannin) with noticeable dirty red and black berry fruit, though it’s not vibrant. 30mins later, this roared in to form for one last gasp and was really enjoyable…bright and tangy rhubarb, peppered strawberries, fig, and chewing tobacco leaves with good acidity. Two glasses later, the curtains fell and the wine was lifeless. Looking forward to test driving the other wines acquired.

From 375ml. Still kicking

Stinky nose; light but not weak structure. Going great with turkey.

Lovely mature redfruit aromas, still some structure, medium-bodied, long finish, very fine “off” vintage of Beaucastel!!

From 375. Huge amount of sediment that most of the usual dark pigmentation of the wine is gone ... looks like Rayas. The barnyard funk is there but blows off in a few minutes. Very good depth with spice and hints of garrique and fruit. Wow 30 year old half bottle!

My lord! Tobacco, bacon, smoked notes of with just a hint of spice. One of those bottles that makes you want to pop open another one right away. AMAZING! Do NOT decant, enjoy the development.

A little tight when open but end up drinking nicely.

Medium ruby, lovely mature notes, soft yet full and long, well-balanced, really fine for a so-called off vintage in Chateauneuf, beautiful wine!!