2006 Paul Autard Cote Ronde - who was right?

WINE TALK
1

So Parker Says:

Deep ruby/plum/purple-colored and full-bodied, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee La Cote Ronde reveals good integration of its wood component along with ripe black currant and black cherry notes intermixed with loamy soil, lavender, and spice box undertones. It is a delicious, soft, ready to drink wine that is more evolved than its 2007 counterpart

and Raynolds says:

Saturated ruby. Powerful aromas of kirsch, lavender, soy sauce and smoked meat, with sexy Asian spices adding energy. Deeply concentrated, palate-coating dark berry fruit flavors show a chewy texture, with firm tannins adding grip. This could pass for a 2005. The spicy finish doesn’t want to let up. Very young, serious wine that should not be opened for a long time.

I tend to agree with Josh more often than not - anyone had this wine and care to comment?

2

Just based on history of the wine, I would have a hard time believing that this would not benefit from more aging.

3

I tend to agree but those are two seemingly very different opinions!

4

That is why I go with history on this one. Email both of them for further reference point?

5

I have a differing opinion. I have not tasted the '06 but based on history, I always thought this was a more modern CdP with a lot of upfront fruit and not terribly structured. Granted the last vintage I’ve had was the 2001 so maybe the style changed.

6

I think I am just going to open one up and taste for myself!

7

The Cote Ronde is a great wine which I think can be enjoyed both young and old. I’ve had a couple of vintages of it at a relatively young age and loved it.

8

FYI, Parker says drink 2008-2023, so clearly he leaves a window to age this one a la JR.