The 2017 Domaine de Saint-Prefert Châteauneuf du Pape Collection Charles Giraud is an exceptional red wine from the renowned Southern Rhone region of France. This proprietary blend comprises approximately 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvèdre, cultivated and aged with meticulous care by Domaine de Saint-Prefert.
Esteemed wine reviewer Jeb Dunnuck has awarded this wine a perfect score of 100, describing it as "pure perfection in a glass." Dunnuck highlights its deep purple hue and the complex bouquet of aromas, which include "blackberry and currant fruits intermixed with loads of cured meats, spice box, Asian spices, and a distinct loamy soil and minerality." The wine's structure is notably more robust than the Reserve Auguste Favier release, attributed to the Mourvèdre component. Dunnuck praises the wine's "full-bodied richness, building yet polished tannins, flawless balance, and a great, great finish," noting its power and elegance.
The wine's aging potential is significant, with Dunnuck suggesting it will benefit from 2-4 years of cellaring and can be enjoyed over the following two decades. This balance of complexity and aging potential is a testament to the skill of winemaker Isabelle Ferrando, who Dunnuck commends for crafting "yet another thrilling wine."
Overall, the 2017 Domaine de Saint-Prefert Châteauneuf du Pape Collection Charles Giraud stands out as a remarkable example of winemaking prowess, offering a rich and structured experience that can be savored now or appreciated for many years to come.