2007 Domaine Paul Autard "Cuvee La Cote Ronde" Chateauneuf-du-Pape (750ml)

A blockbuster Châteauneuf-du-Pape that shows a modern profile, but easily hangs on to its southern Rhône roots and stays remarkably fresh, the 2007 Domaine Paul Autard Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée La Côte Ronde is loaded with chocolaty black fruits, roasted herbs, licorice, flowers, mineral, and spice aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, beautifully proportioned, and showing even more depth and structure than on release, this is thrilling stuff that’s beautiful now due to the texture and quality of tannin, yet has more than enough structure and grip to evolve gracefully for 12-15 years. For those that are adverse to modern styled Châteauneuf-du-Pape or hints of oak, give bottles 4-5 years in the cellar.  (3/2012)

The 2007 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée La Côte Ronde (a blend of equal parts Grenache and Syrah from 60-year-old vines, with the Syrah enjoying malolactic fermentation in barrel and aging in new oak) possesses smoky, roasted herb, seaweed wrapper, licorice, cassis, and black cherry characteristics. The oak component is beautifully integrated, and the wine has superb concentration, a full-bodied style, and a true Châteauneuf du Pape personality in spite of the new oak. It should drink well for 15+ years. Drink through 2024. (RP)  (10/2009)

A stunner, combining the rich currant, fig and boysenberry fruit of the vintage with the region's characteristic charred apple wood, graphite, aged tobacco and black tea notes. The long, invigorating finish is supported by riveting acidity and well-embedded grip. When power and finesse work together, it's a beautiful thing. *Highly Recommended* (JM) (9/2009)

Deep ruby. Pungent scents of cassis, smoked meat, licorice and oak spices, with slow-building floral character. Broad, palate-staining dark fruit flavors are framed by chewy tannins and become sweeter with air. Showing a lot of oak spice right now but shows impressively concentrated black and blue fruit qualities as well. The finish packs a solid punch and leaves sweet boysenberry, vanilla and licorice notes behind. Give this a few years for the oak to recede. (JR) 92+  (1/2010)