The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape traditional cuvee is a blend of 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and the balance a mix of other permitted varieties. Aged in a combination of concrete tanks, foudre and demi-muids, it is a classic, textbook effort that exudes garrigue, saddle leather, earth, underbrush and copious sweet red and black fruits. Medium-bodied, elegant and mature, it should be consumed over the coming handful of years.
The first vintage where winemaker Nicolas Boiron was completely in charge, 2004 is a solid year for this estate and the wines show classic profiles across the board. In addition, this was the first vintage where they started to implement partial destemming.