Introducing the exquisite 2019 Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee les Gallimardes, a captivating red wine from the esteemed Chateauneuf du Pape appellation in the Southern Rhone region of France. This wine exemplifies the mastery and artistry of Domaine Giraud, a renowned producer known for crafting exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.
In the glass, the 2019 Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee les Gallimardes displays a deep and alluring purple/plum color, hinting at the richness and depth that awaits. The nose is an olfactory delight, exuding a ripe and decadent bouquet that captivates the senses. Ripe black cherries, fruit cake, ground pepper, and garrigue intermingle harmoniously, creating a symphony of aromas that is both enticing and complex.
On the palate, this full-bodied red wine delivers an exquisite expression of the vintage. The fruit is wonderfully ripe, enveloping the palate with its lusciousness. The wine's tannins are ripe and building, adding structure and depth to the overall experience. As the wine lingers on the palate, it reveals the more savory, Provençal style of the vintage, showcasing its beautiful fruit and a truly great finish that leaves a lasting impression.
Notable wine critic Jeb Dunnuck awarded this wine an impressive score of 96 points, praising its ripe fruit, building tannins, and great finish. He suggests that this wine will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and has the potential to age gracefully for two decades.
Jeff Leve, another esteemed wine critic, describes this wine as earthy, rich, spicy, and fresh. He notes the blend of olives, garrigue, peppery red fruits, strawberries, and black raspberries that create a harmonious flavor profile. He recommends enjoying this wine in its youth or cellaring it for more complexity and nuance.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also raves about this wine, giving it a score of 97 points. They highlight its black-fruited beauty, with notes of blackberries, black cherries, black licorice, and black olives. The wine's full-bodied and velvety texture, along with its lingering spice-inflected finish, solidifies its status as a truly exceptional wine.
Wine Spectator adds to the chorus of praise, awarding this wine a score of 95 points. They commend its ability to capture the ripe, flattering fruit of the vintage while maintaining a sense of freshness. The wine's core of raspberry reduction and plum coulis is complemented by floral, red licorice, and apple wood accents, leading to a focused and mineral-tinged finish.
Vinous, led by acclaimed wine critic Josh Raynolds, awards this wine an impressive score of 96 points. He describes the wine's appearance as a deep, shimmering ruby and notes the pungent aromas of red and dark berry liqueur, licorice, garrigue, and potpourri. On the palate, the wine displays lush and expansive flavors of black raspberry, cherry, and boysenberry, supported by subtly chewy tannins. The strikingly long and sappy finish echoes the wine's floral and spice notes, leaving a lasting impression.
The 2019 Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee les Gallimardes is a wine of exceptional quality and character. With its impressive accolades and remarkable aging potential, this wine is a true gem that will undoubtedly elevate any wine lover's collection. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further maturation, this wine is a testament to the artistry and dedication of Domaine Giraud.