Still in foudres, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee is even more impressive than it was last year. It`s still firmly tannic, but the fruit seems to be growing in stature, adding volume and richness sufficient to round out the tannins. This full-bodied, concentrated wine offers hints of mocha and raspberries, but it seems a bit more monolithic than the 2015 at the moment. 93-95 points

80-85% Grenache, 9% Syrah, 5-6% Mourvèdre, plus Cinsault, Counoise, whole bunch fermentation, twice daily pumping overs, aged 90% large 27-60 hl barrels, 10% mature casks 18-24 months, 65-75,000 b
(barrel/casks) healthy dark red robe. The nose brims up with abundant, soaked black fruits, blackberry and prune. There are enjoyable, discreet airs of rose and violet. The palate is rich, varied, presents good and true Grenache plum fruit with some late spicing. The tannins weave a mineral fix into the wine, and the aftertaste is pebbly, pretty fresh, as a result. This h