CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE | FRANCE | $54
Medium-bodied cherry, raspberry and rhubarb supported with earthy flavors of forest floor, redwood and camphor, and a slight chai-spice back note. Chamois-like, slightly grainy texture offers a hand-hewn feel to this well-crafted bottling. An intriguing muscularity-and-agility counter-play captures attention and holds interest. He’s a slight fellow, of lean, sinuous muscle, firm sun-baked features and a cerebral tenacity; quite strong for his build, his focus and grip are solid and nearly unyielding, but to a point. 100% Grenache, fermented in tanks. A very good wine. (Reviewed 10/28/12)