1978 Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape

Historically cited as the exception that proves that a 100%-Grenache wine can be capable of long aging (tiny crop levels and the right soil and site are as important here as vinification and aging of the wine), Rayas has for decades been treasured for its unique combination of almost Burgundian red-berry perfume and extraordinary liqueur-like ripeness and mouthfilling richness. The wines from this estate suffered for a time after the death of Jacques Reynaud in 1996, but quality here is again on the rise.  Côtes du Rhône from this producer, under the name Fonsalette, is complex and almost as ageworthy.

Historically cited as the exception that proves that a 100%-Grenache wine can be capable of long aging (tiny crop levels and the right soil and site are as important here as vinification and aging of the wine), Rayas has for decades been treasured for its unique combination of alm... more