2016 M. Chapoutier "Croix de Bois" Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival, Elsewhere $100)
SKU #1337625
97 points
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Croix de Bois comes from a site on the eastern side of the appellation and, like its bigger brother, is 100% destemmed Grenache that saw 21 months in concrete tanks. Blueberries, crème de cassis, crushed rocks, licorice, and pepper notes all emerge from this deep, powerful, surprisingly structured example of this cuvée. It has tons of fat and richness, but give bottles a few years.
(8/2018)
95-97 points
Wine Advocate
Not yet bottled, the 2016 Châteauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois looks to be the star of Chapoutier's Southern Rhône collection. Cracked pepper, licorice and black raspberry notes sing loudly in this full-bodied, supple, creamy-textured beauty. There's a hint of warmth on the lingering, mouthwatering finish, which may limit its ageability, but this is so sexy and lush now, who could resist? (JC)
(8/2018)
96 points
Wine Spectator
Rich and alluring, with waves of steeped plum, blackberry and black cherry fruit rolling through, infused with Lapsang souchong tea, licorice root, sweet tobacco and fresh humus notes. Subtle incense and spice hints add detail on the finish, while the fruit gives a strong kick at the end. Best from 2021 through 2038. 42 cases imported. (JM)
(11/2019)
95 points
Vinous
Deep shimmering ruby. A sexy, highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, Asian spices, cola and potpourri, and a smoky mineral flourish builds in the glass. Seductively sweet and expansive in the mouth, offering intense raspberry liqueur, cherry cola, candied lavender and spicecake flavors that are firmed by a core of juicy acidity. Shows outstanding depth as well as finesse, with no rough edges. The strikingly long, floral- and spice-accented finish emphatically echoes the red fruit note and is given shape by smooth tannins. All concrete. (JR)
(12/2019)
Jancis Robinson
100% Grenache. Cool and peppery on the nose. Very sweet and rich initially on the palate and then rather sophisticated in terms of structure. Polished and ‘cool.’ Very refreshing.
(4/2017)