GRAPE EXPECTATIONS, INC® Domaine de la Charbonniere Chateauneuf du Pape 2016 [1.5L MAGNUM] (Southern Rhone, France) – [WS 94, #30 Top 100: 2019] [WE 94] [JS 93] [AG 92] [RP 91+] – 6057802858655

94 Points & #30 Top 100 Wines of 2019 – Wine Spectator Magazine:
“Features the dense, dark, ripe profile of the vintage, with a core of steeped currant, fig and boysenberry fruit, supported by a dense structure, notes of dark earth, tobacco and bitter cocoa, and a long finish that ripples with latent energy. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Best from 2023 through 2037. 2,400 cases made, 500 cases imported.” JM (Nov 15, 2019)

94 Points – Wine Enthusiast:
“Fresh violet, black-cherry and bramble notes perfume this supple, concentrated blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. It’s opulent but freshly composed rather than dense and brooding. Tannins are ripe but persistent and should meld beautifully through 2030.” – Anna Lee C. Iijima (12/31/2019)

93 Points – James Suckling:
“This has impeccable richness and ripeness, packed with dark berries and delivered in a seamless, dynamic palate. Long and delicious Chateauneuf here. Drink or hold.” – (7 Jul, 2018)

92 Points – Vinous:
“Shimmering ruby-red. Powerful aromas of raspberry, cherry liqueur and succulent flowers are joined by baking spice and mineral elements that build in the glass. Lively, spice-laced red berry and bitter cherry flavors display excellent clarity and minerally lift. Finishes with impressive energy, the silky tannins adding subtle grip to lingering berry and floral notes.” – Josh Raynolds (Dec 2019)

91+ Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate:
“The recently bottled (three weeks before my visit) 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape was surprisingly open. It features delightfully ripe Grenache fruit that hints at stone fruit and milk chocolate, ample weight on the plate and a supple, easygoing personality. It should drink well for the next decade.” – Joe Czerwinski (31st Aug 2018)