2017 Chateau Rayas Vertical: 2005-2010
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Tasting notes
Elegance, refinement and a remarkable purity of fruit are the hallmarks of this vintage at Rayas. The kirsch is silky, fresh, juicy, long and sensuous, with length and complexity. The parade of ripe, red fruits in the finish stays with you for close to 60 seconds. The wine is not yet bottled. But it is quite clear this is going to be one of the top vintages for Rayas.
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
A blend of three components, this has a mix of red-cherry and blueberry aromas, such sweet, sweet perfume and a spicy edge, as well as strawberries, raspberries and red flowers. The palate has such finely detailed and silky tannins and a swathe of fresh and juicy, sapid fruit flesh that holds so very long and pure. Power with elegance, vibrant acidity and a building sense of concentration. All here. Tasted from cask. Try 15 years from release.
Cask samples of Grenache tasted at the domaine, from three different parcels: heart, sunrise and sunset. Heart was co-fermented with Sunrise and Sunset in 2017 because yields were so low. Sample 1 (Heart and Sunset) : There's as much stone and spice as there is fruit – all intermingling and harmonious. Pepper, plum, redcurrant, chilli and a definite garrigue herbaceous border. Very svelte tannic structure. Long and haunting on the finish. Sample 2 (Heart and Sunrise) : Spiced nose, with a vibrancy and clarity that sets it apart from other Châteauneufs, and outstanding spice and herb seasoning on the finish. Lengthy black fruit with juicy, plump richness on the palate – but never too full. Cranberry and rhubarb fruit. (RH)
About the producer
Ch. Rayas is a cult name in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The wines – pure, silken expressions of Grenache with distinctive perfume – are revered for their singularity and fiercely collected. Made by Emmanuel Reynaud and renowned for their ageability, they have become some of the region's most sought-after.