Intense ruby red color with purple reflections. The nose is very mineral at first, with notes of ink and schist. Then with aeration, all the dark fruitiness develops: ripe blackcurrant, cherry jam, bay leaf and pepper. The palate is remarkably balanced, with great density but elegant. The sweetness softens the tannic sensations and the mineral tension tightens the wine to infuse it with beautiful energy. Notes of black fruits, olive, and graphite at the end. This wine goes perfectly with grilled red meats and cheeses.
Blend: 45% Grenache, 45% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre
94 Jeb Dunnuck The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Du Baron, which has not been bottled yet, should be terrific. It offers classic Southern Rhône goodness in its red and black fruits as well as notes of leather, peppery herbs, and underbrush. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it brings solid purity of fruit, lots of tannins, and outstanding length. The blend is 45% each of Grenache and Syrah, with the balance Mourvedre.Range: 92-94
94 Wine Spectator This blockbuster packs a lot of power and stuffing, with a generous outpouring of black raspberry ganache, dark cherry and licorice. Savory acidity and an herbal thread weaves through while chalky tannins and notes of toasty apple wood, cast iron and smoked meat echo on the finish. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.
92 James Suckling Lots of savory and soy sauce character here. Good balance of richness and restrained structure on the full-bodied palate. Moderately dry, harmonious finish makes this good to drink now.
92 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Matured in traditional foudres for 18 months, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Baron is 45% each Grenache and Syrah, rounded out by 10% Mourvèdre, from primarily stony vineyard parcels. It's ripe and black-fruited, bursting with notes of plum and black cherries on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied and supple, with ample concentration and a long, silky finish.
