Bright ruby. Vibrant, spice-accented aromas of raspberry and cherry liqueur, incense and pungent flowers are accompanied by a smoky mineral nuance that builds in the glass. Deep-pitched yet impressively lively as well, offering intense red and dark berry liqueur and floral pastille flavors that stain the palate and show superb clarity and minerally lift. Closes extremely long, focused and lively, with silky tannins framing the wine’s sweet fruit. This is about as good as a "basic" Châteauneuf gets. 94 points

A rounded and generous style, very soft and ripe in fruit but with a firm acid core. Feels in better harmony than some this vintage. Good freshness, a complete wine. Lieux-dits L’Arnesque, Beau Renard, La Bigote, Les Gallimardes, mostly galets roulés. 93 points