Tardieu Laurent 2015 Chateauneuf Du Pape

"Rock-solid, with a core of kirsch, raspberry coulis and bitter plum fruit liberally laced with brambly grip, strong oolong tea and dried star anise notes. Shows a lovely tug of tar at the very end. Still very coiled up. For the cellar. Best from 2020 through 2035." Wine Spectator 95 Points

"(made with 50 percent whole clusters) Bright ruby-red. Intensely perfumed raspberry and cherry liqueur scents, accompanied by potpourri and Asian spice nuances and a smoky mineral nuance that builds in the glass. Juicy and appealingly sweet, displaying lively red fruit and floral pastille flavors and a supple, seamless texture. Smoothly balances richness and vivacity and shows an attractive light touch. Finishes long and minerally, with smooth, harmonious tannins and a subtle echo of candied flowers." Josh Raynolds 91-93 Points

"Across the board, T-L has reined in its oak use. The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape spent time in foudres only, from Stockinger, Rousseau and Seguin Moreau. Raspberries and blackberries are joined by herbal, almost tomato-leaf notes, while the full-bodied palate is creamy and lush, ending in a rich, velvety finish." Robert Parker 92 Points