Chateau de Beaucastel-Chateauneuf-Du-Pape-Rhone-France-1999-$50 (Release price)-A nose of dark fruit and some spice, dark ruby in color. Blackberry, cassis, some roasted spice, a little tired but smooth, elegant. RP-91 WS-90 CR-89 Good with ribs, cheese, salads.
Jean-Pierre Boisson-Chateauneuf Du Pape-Elisabeth Chambellan-Vieilles Vignes-France-2007-$21.99-A juicy nose of currants, medium ruby in color. I hate to admit, but this is the first full bottle of a CDP I have tried, mostly had sampled at a wine tasting event, but with the recession these are now affordable. A delicate, smooth, red currants, minerals, light pepper, vanilla, very good. NR CR-91 Good alone or with chicken, Chinese food, salads.
Patrick Lesec Selections-Galets Blonds-Chateauneuf Du Pape-France-2006-$29.99-A nose of earth and funk, needs long decant, dark amber in color. Medium to full bodied with cassis, black cherry, licorice and pepper, I am guessing that I should have waited a few more years to drink as I did not find it all that enjoyable. RP-93 CR-88 Good with meats, chicken, cheeses.
Domaine Pontifical-Francois Laget-Chateauneuf-Du-Pape-France-2007-$21.99-A nose of earthy spice and dark fruit, dark ruby in color. A smooth medium to full bodied CDP, blackberry, currants, licorice and pepper and spice, a very good QPR. RP-90-92 WS-91 CR-90 Good with meats, chicken, pasta.