2009 CHATEAU RAYAS Rouge 2009

(11-2022) The intensity of the nose, with its bouquet of flowers, black raspberries, kirsch, orange rind, cherries, and thyme get everything off to a good start. On the palate, you find that rare combination of freshness, sensuous textures, and an ocean of perfectly ripe, sweet red fruits that express a gorgeous sense of purity in the long, seamless, silky, creamy finish. With a few years of age, this could score even higher! This is Chateauneuf du Pape at its best. Drink from 2022-2044.

(10-2011) The 2009 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape is an awesome example of elegance combined with extraordinary power. The alcohol levels must be between 15.5% and 16%, but the elegance and sublime nature of this wine make it irresistible. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by an extraordinary bouquet of framboise, black cherry liqueur intermixed with blacker fruits, licorice and a hint of flowers. Pure with terrific layers of fruit concentration (although it's remarkably light on its feet), silky tannins, well-integrated acidity and a stunning personality, this monumental Rayas is breathtaking. This beauty will undoubtedly be drinkable early on (although Emmanuel Reynaud considers that to be infanticide), and it is capable of lasting 25-30 years.

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