Pretty was the first word out of my mouth when I nosed this wine. Very well-defined aromas of red cherry, raspberry and strawberry with floral undertones characterize the nose. There is an impressive purity and freshness in the mouth driven by the same red fruits from the nose but this time there’s a touch of minerality and subtle baking spices. Very fine, silky tannins; seamless flow on the palate. There is a mouthfilling quality to the wine without any heaviness. Vibrant and persistent acidity. Impressive length. Such pretty aromatics and finesse and I immediately thought Burgundy from a really great vintage. Maybe Remoissenet Richebourg?
This turned out to be a 2006 Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve.
I would never have gone to the Grenache camp based on the initial observations. For me, this wine lacked the spiciness, at least initially, of Grenache. This was pure, sweet red fruits and the silky, refined tannins as well as bright acidity led me directly to Burgundy camp. Admittedly, as the wine sat in the glass and opened up, notes of cumin, clove, and pepper started to unfold while the palate became more opulent (raspberry and black cherry jam) while maintaining its elegant, feminine structure.
This was absolutely a great glass to pass this rainy Monday by.