2005 Domaine de Cristia Châteauneuf-du-Pape
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Starting off the 2005s, the classic 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape showed slightly better on this occasion than during my retrospective last year. Loaded with notions of roasted herbs, cured meats, dried violets, garrigue and currants, it's medium to full-bodied, rounded, beautifully textured and loaded with character. Drink it over the coming 4-5 years.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Josh Raynolds
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Domaine de Cristia's 2005 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is slightly more structured and tight than the 2004 with black cherry and raspberry fruit notes but also this interesting hot stone/mineral trait. The palate is medium to full bodied, concentrated and almost opulent with a soft, mouth filling texture and fine grained tannins on the long finish.
Bright ruby. Fresh raspberry and cherry aromas are complemented by suave garrigue and dried floral qualities. Lively red fruits on the palate, with energizing acidity adding snap and focus. Silky tannins build on the long, vibrant finish. Much fresher than the barrel sample I tried last year.