2006 Chateauneuf du Pape
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Tasting Notes
The elegant 2006 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape is not as powerful as the 2005 or 2007, but it offers a deep ruby color as well as opulent, fleshy, kirsch and black raspberry characteristics along with hints of spring flowers and loamy soil. A sexy, showy, beautifully balanced, silky effort, it is already approachable, and should drink well for two decades. Oct 2008, www.robertparker.com, Drink: 2008-2028
Critic Scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
John Livingstone-Learmonth, Drink Rhône
More reviews and scores
The three equal proportions tasted in cask Oct 2010: Rayas III (228-litre cask) ****** the heart from sand, with very little clay, just behind the cellars, oldest 1974, 1982-92 Grenache, the heart of the Grenache, last plot picked: great finesse, a lovely nose bearing gentle red cherry fruit aromas, plus a hidden depth. It is complemented by a stylish palate that comes with a fine, filigree touch. Raspberry and red fruits circulate. There is a lovely elegant richness across the late palate. A great drop of wine. 27 years. “this is the most accessible of our three parts,” Emmanuel Reynaud. Rayas II (600-litre cask, setting sun, S-W facing, 150 metres from RIII, second plot picked) ***** red robe; striking red fruits nose, with cocoa notes. Live, forward red fruit with tight tannins attached on the palate; has body and taut potential. Redcurrant flavour and freshness on the finish. Persistent, chewy style sign-off which is also peppery. A solid wine. 26 years. Rayas I ****** (rising sun, S-E facing, opposite the cellars, first plot picked) fine red robe; precise red cherry/berry airs in a reserved, compact nose that offers hints of richness. The palate is also compact, flinty. Has a tight red fruit, and is reticent, not floral or tender. This can contribute spine to the final wine. OVERALL ****** all 3 have very good red colours; there is great purity in all 3. Lots of life ahead, with a truly solid, authentic foundation. Oct 2010, www.drinkrhone.com, Drink: 2017-2038
Medium red. Vibrant strawberry, raspberry, anise and floral aromas could fill a room. Juicy and sharply delineated, offering sweet red berry and cherry preserve flavors with compelling accents of licorice, sassafras, lavender and smoky minerals. Extremely elegant wine with outstanding finishing cut and persistence. Not many grand cru Burgundies could match this for finesse. Jan 2009, www.vinous.com
18++ points. Truly majestic concentration. Sweet, rich and spicy. Amazingly dense and youthful. Dry with lots of tannin on the finish. Put this away for ages. Mar 2009, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2015-2030
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About the producer
Ch. Rayas is the most respected name in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The wines are fiercely collected and some of the most expensive in the region – revered for being pure, silken expressions of Grenache with distinctive perfume.