based in the northern rhône, chapoutier's châteauneufs have not always been a strong suit, but the 2006 barbe rac rocks. some stable-like notes on the nose add complexity to the bold cherry fruit, while stemmy, herbal notes bring even more nuance to the palate. it's full bodied, soft and round, with a finishing texture somewhere between silk and velvet. best from 2012–2020.
Barbe Rac