TN: Sunday Luncheon – 2004 & 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape
2005 Domaine La Milliere – Chateauneuf du Pape – Vieilles Vignes
Bought on release, 14% alcohol on the label, popped and poured. Deep cherry red. A slightly dirty wood nose with a hint of wild herbs. The palate is savoury, tight and dilute, with a bitter lime finish. This bottle is not playing with me today. Closed? A forgettable wine, time to move on…
2004 Domaine Charvin – Chateauneuf du Pape
Bought on release, 14.5%, popped and poured. Red plum colour with a clear rim. Fresh red cherries on the nose with a hint of wild herb. The medium bodied mouthfeel is velvet smooth, with supporting fresh acidity and fine tannins. The usual Charvin balance is here, as is the freshness. The length mirrors all of this. Drinking well now, though there are several years of further development here.
I had a bottle of this 2005 Domaine La Milliere VV [CNDP] over the last few days. This is the US import from North Berkeley, so I’m not sure if its the exact same as what might be in other markets. 14.2% abv. Paired with steak frites and Bearnaise sauce, which went well. It has bouquet of hazelnuts, and raspberries on the palate. This is a touch of old school funk too, but just a touch. I’d lump it into the resolutely classic camp. I’m surprised that I have not had one before, but this example would move this estate on my buy list. It’s medium bodied, ruby hued, without much sediment. Tannins are resolved. Overall just balanced grenache with a touch of spice. It has aged well, and I’d give it an A-. It deserves attention from those who don’t buy/drink the So. Rho any more.
