3 | Wine | New Arrivals, 86 or higher, 2007

"Well-defined mulberry, cocoa and mint-scented bouquet that unfurls temptingly in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and crisp acidity, serving up notes of blackberry, melted asphalt, undergrowth and a sandalwood. The palate is medium-bodied with a touch of white pepper on the entry. It is underpinned by firm tannins: a solid structure that is classic in style, but one that melts and coalesces beautifully over the course of twenty minutes in the glass".

"The 2007 Pinot Noir Cellar Reserve it was fermented with native yeasts, remained on its lees with minimal batonnage, and was bottled without fining or filtration. Medium ruby-colored, it offers up a fragrant perfume of cedar, smoke, violets, black cherry, and black raspberry. Silky on the palate with a bit of underlying structure, it has good depth and concentration, succulent fruit, and 3-4 years of aging potential."

"Ripe, lush and inviting, with unabashed licorice, plum sauce, melted fig and boysenberry fruit flavors that glide over hints of spice and mocha. The long, velvety finish pumps out the fruit in spades".

"One of the finest Chateauneufs made by Guigal, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 85% Grenache and the rest Syrah and Mourvedre. Full-bodied with lots of kirsch, blackberry, raspberry, camphor and licorice, this is a classic example of both Chateauneuf du Pape and Provencal viticulture. It is aged in both tank and foudre for 3-4 years prior to being released. Drink it over the next 20 years. It is amazing that Guigal can consistently produce a wine of this majesty." -Robert Parker

"exhibits a similar dark ruby/purple hue as well as more black fruits and spice in the impressive aromatics. It is a fuller-bodied, richer wine with beautiful texture, purity, and length. Enjoy it over the next 7-10 years." -Robert Parker

"There's plenty of tannic power in this crisp style, offering flavors of raspberry and cherry that show notes of bittersweet chocolate and citrus, which extend on the dense finish."