Josh Raynolds writes: Lurid magenta. Expansive aromas of mineral-tinged red berries, incense and cola, joined by a suave floral nuance as the wine opens up. Appealingly sweet and seamless on the palate, offering juicy raspberry, cherry, spicecake and candied licorice flavors that are braced by a spine of juicy acidity. Finishes smooth and long, with gentle tannins and lingering floral pastille and star anise notes. Vinous 92
Joe Czerwinski writes: The 2017 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Tradition is a top effort for an entry-level wine. Bottled in March, it features peppery notes, dried spices and ripe cherries on the nose. Full-bodied, rich and velvety, it finishes long and intense, adding hints of salted licorice. It should drink well for at least a decade. Drinking 2020 to 2030. Robert Parker Wine Advocate 92
James Molesworth writes: Fresh and forward, featuring lively raspberry and cassis flavors, infused with light savory, anise and black tea notes. A subtle mineral streak adds a mouthwatering echo on the stylish finish. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2034. Wine Spectator 92
Jeb Dunnuck writes: The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape checks in as 75% Grenache, 11% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, and the balance Cinsault, Vaccarèse, and Counoise. It was 60% destemmed and brought up in a mix of foudre and concrete tanks. It's a smoking good base cuvée that offers perfumed black raspberries, violets, sweet spice, and exotic pepper aromas and flavors. Rich, medium to full-bodied, packed with fruit, balanced, and lengthy, drink this seductive, sexy 2017 over the coming 10-15 years. Drinking 2019 to 2034. Jeb Dunnuk 92+
Richard Hemming MW writes: 75% Grenache, 11% Syrah, 11% Mourvèdre, 1% Cinsault, 1% Vaccarèse, 1% Counoise. Cask sample.
Tasted blind. Dense, compressed nose. Heavy and thick without much flavour development and finishes with austere furriness. A touch of oak spice right at the last. Drinking 2020 - 2027. Jancis Robinson 16.5
