The 2019 Domaine de Cristia Chateauneuf du Pape is a red wine produced in the renowned Southern Rhone region of France. This proprietary blend, composed primarily of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, comes from the esteemed Domaine de Cristia winery. The wine is sealed with a cork and has an alcohol content of 14.5%.
Several professional reviewers have provided their insights on this vintage, offering a range of perspectives that highlight the wine's qualities. Decanter describes it as "Fresh, open, spicy and aromatically precise," noting its drinkability and elegance due to its fine, grippy tannins. They score it a respectable 91 points, emphasizing its suitability for early consumption.
Jeb Dunnuck, who awarded the wine 90 points, praises it as a "terrific effort well worth seeking out." He highlights the wine's aromatic profile, which includes notes of black cherries, blackberries, ground pepper, and orange blossom. Dunnuck characterizes the wine as medium to full-bodied and ideal for immediate enjoyment, suggesting a drinking window of the next 7-8 years.
Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com also gives the wine 91 points, focusing on its "kirsch and floral notes" and its "soft, silky, polished" texture. He appreciates the blend of red fruits, spices, and herbs, which provides a nuanced and ripe finish. Leve recommends drinking this wine from 2022 through 2033.
Vinous reviewer Josh Raynolds offers a slightly higher score of 92 points. He describes the wine as "Vivid ruby" with aromas of "mineral-tinged red berries, incense and cola." Raynolds notes its appealing sweetness and seamless texture, with flavors of black raspberry, cherry, spicecake, and licorice. The wine's finish is smooth and long, with lingering floral and spice notes.
Wine Spectator provides the highest rating at 93 points, describing the wine as "ripe, juicy and mouthfilling." They highlight the enticing flavors of raspberry, boysenberry, and fig compote, enlivened by anise, fruitcake, and mulling spice accents. This review suggests a drinking window starting in 2023 and extending through 2036.
In summary, the 2019 Domaine de Cristia Chateauneuf du Pape is a well-regarded wine with a range of favorable reviews. Its balanced profile of ripe fruit, spice, and floral notes makes it an appealing choice for both immediate drinking and longer-term aging.