“La Crau” is arguably the most famous plat in Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Domaine La Boutiniere produces a small bottling from 100-year-old vines. The wine is deep ruby purple with powerful aromas of dark black fruits, black cherry, and blueberry, with notes of licorice, thyme, wood, and earth. The palate shows layers of fruit, silky tannins with beautiful definition, acidity that is deftly integrated, and a fine fleshiness that I found very appealing. The fruit, acidity and spiciness all come together ending in a long finish. This wine is fully capable of aging 5 – 10 years.

By Perry Miroballi