M. Chapoutier Barbe Rac Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2016

The sensational 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Barbe Rac comes from a sandy clay terroir located in the western portion of the appellation. A massive, deep, full-bodied wine, with a huge nose of blueberry liqueur, crushed rock, violets, and garrigue, it has no hard edges, a thick, unctuous texture, sweet tannin, and a finish that just won’t quit. It’s the greatest vintage of this wine ever made (surpassing the 2007) and will be a candidate for perfection in a few years and keep for 15-20 years. Drink date: 2021-2036. Score – 99. (jebdunnuck.com, Aug. 28, 2018)