Domaine du Pegau - Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee 2017

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "The 2017 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Réservée hits the standard assemblage: 80% Grenache, 6% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre and 10% "others." Still in cask at the time of my visit, it has expressive floral and garrigue notes, plus hints of star anise layered over a base of black cherries. Full-bodied, deep and rich, this looks like a vintage to set aside for a while, with at least 15 years of longevity ahead of it."

JEB DUNNUCK: "Not yet bottled, the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Réservée is a normal blend of 80% Grenache, 6% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre, and the rest assorted varieties (not destemmed), brought up all in foudre and old barrels. It has classic Pégau notes of ground pepper, earth, meat, truffle, and blackcurrants as well as medium to full body, good density, building tannins, and a great finish. Laurence compared this vintage to 2005, but I think this 2017 has more density and flesh. It’s a beautiful, classic Pégau that reminds me a slightly toned down 2009."

JAMES SUCKLING: "White roses and grilled pears with hints of grapefruit and lemon blossom. The palate is driven on long, pithy fruit. Really impressive structure. Fresh, lemon and pear flavors to close. Drink or hold."