CHATEAU DE BEAUCASTEL Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2004

Winemaker Notes:The vineyard is a patchwork of all 13 permitted grape varieties, 70 hectares in all. The soil is the same porous, aerated blanket of Alpine diluvium (rounded stones) on a base of Miocene marine limestone that exists elsewhere on the estate. The vines are on average 50 years old and yields are never more than 30 hectolitres per hectare and often much less. It is a vibrant and healthy vineyard due to years of organic cultivation and close monitoring of the needs of each vine.

The red wine of Beaucastel as with Coudoulet de Beaucastel is a structured, intense yet lean drink, thanks in part to the large percentage of Mourvedre – about 30% – in the final cuve. Its austere tannic backbone and resistant to oxidation help Beaucastel age gracefully.

Press Reviews

94Wine Advocate

Showing brilliantly, with a deep, rich and layered profile, the straight 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape has gorgeous black cherry, earth, underbrush and background meatiness that gives way to a full-bodied, concentrated and pure feel on the palate. A foudre-aged blend of 30% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 5% Cinsault, with the balance a mix of the other permitted varieties, this knockout Chateauneuf du Pape will have another 10-15 years of prime drinking.

93Jeb Dunnuck

Rich and meaty with stunning dark fruit, licorice, truffle and earthy notes; the 2004 Chteau de Beaucastel Chteauneuf-du-Pape has beautiful purity and impressive richness given the vintage. The palate is medium to full bodied with a tight, young and structured feel, plenty of fruit and ripe tannins on the finish. I’d be happy to have a couple of these in the cellar.