Cuvée Exceptionnelle Châteauneuf-du-Pape Red Rhone Blend

Out of the magnum.

Still youthful, but open. Any fan of big American Pinot noir should check out chateauneuf: epic fruit that's infused with energy and clarity.

I think this is in a bad place.

Tonight's choice for wet & dry ribs.

Dark and brooding. Grenache seeming sappy at first, more earthy after much aeration. Should be cellared for another 10 years.

Magnum

If you think their entry level of Chateauneuf-du-pape is great, try this, it will blow your socks off! They only make the "exceptional" a few times a decade

Strawberry compote and earth

CNDP 2017 Magnum. Different format bottle and was very good. Definitely a wine that needs time to breathe. Became much much better after being open 30 to 45 minutes. Nose: dark fruit, menthol? Taste: plum, cherry, high acidity.

2017 Domaine du Vieux Lazaret 'Cuvée Exceptionnelle' Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Rhône valley GSM. Deep ruby color, red fruits, dark fruits, and even blueberry. Tannins start quite acidic, but soften over time. Warm spices come out after about 30 mins.

very intense when opened mellows out wonderfully a pleasure for the pallet