2007 M. Chapoutier "Barbe Rac" Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival)

98 points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Barbe Rac, which comes from the western part of the appellation from a vineyard planted in 1901 and 1902, is, like the Croix de Bois, 100% Grenache aged totally in cement tanks. It boasts a dense purple color along with a sumptuous nose of black raspberries, black currants, incense, camphor, licorice, and garrigue. Full-bodied, voluptuously-textured, exuberant, rich, and pure with stunning depth and concentration, it can be drunk young or cellared for 15-20 years. Chapoutier's holdings in Châteauneuf-du-Pape continue to grow as he purchased the Bois Dauphin estate recently. He now owns 100 acres (all planted with Grenache) in the appellation (all of them biodynamically farmed)." (10/09) 96 points Wine Spectator: "This belies the lush fruit of the vintage¿for now. Supersilky and perfumy, with gorgeous blackberry, Lapsang souchong tea, sandalwood and shiso leaf notes that all glide along fine-grained tannins, with a core of dark plum and blackberry fruit in reserve. Seamless and pure. Should blossom in the cellar. Best from 2012 through 2025. 665 cases made." (05/10) Expected to arrive August 2010