Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 93
“Undoubtedly one of the best Châteauneufs of the vintage, Clos des Papes’s 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape was in surprisingly fine form. Full-bodied but wonderfully silky with age, it shows developing aromas and flavors of tree bark, cola, dried spices, red cherries and white button mushrooms. While I wouldn’t expect it to last forever, it should provide delicious drinking over the next 5 years or so. It was made from tiny yields of 16 hectoliters per hectare and reached 14.7% alcohol in what was a challenging vintage in the Southern Rhône.”
Anticipated maturity: 2011-2023
Vinous 91
Bright ruby. A heady bouquet displays fresh red berries, sandalwood, dried flowers and a hint of baking spices. Creamy in texture, with lively acidity lifting sweet red and dark berry and candied rose flavors. Becomes sappier with air and finishes with very good clarity and lingering spiciness. Avril thinks this wine will surprise people with its ability to age.
JancisRobinson.com 18.0
NB vintage. He likes this vintage a lot. If you like burgundy… Like 1988 and 1993 but better, he says. They had mildew in June, but it was not a coulure year. They had to do a green harvest because some vines were overloaded. Bright crimson. Broad, round, transparent. Some freshness on the finish. Slightly dry tannins on the end at the moment. Firm and fine. Not just big. Great freshness. Carefully served before 2010 though.
Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025