Domaine de la Charite 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, La Fleur de Capucine

Domaine de la Charité is in the village of Saze, west of Avignon. It was founded by Christophe Coste's grandfather in 1970 at which time there were just 12.5 acres producing grapes. Now, under Christophe's management, the estate has expanded to 111 acres of vines. Everything has been done organically since day one when Christophe took over and now his vineyards have full Ecocertification from the EU.

Christophe is a rising star in the Rhone Valley. In 1999, his second vintage after completing his degree in oenology, his wine received the coveted "Coup de Coeur" in the Guide Hachette. He has received the award in every edition of the guide since then.

This wine from the outstanding 2016 vintage is 100% Grenache from his certified organic vineyards. Fermentation takes place in steel tanks which are mounted horizontally and rotate gently on a central axis to assist in mixing the skins throughout the fermenting mass. Aging is 18 months in traditional 600 liter oak barrels.

Vinous scored this 91-93 saying "Brilliant ruby-red. A complex, expansive bouquet displays ripe red berry, cherry liqueur, incense and candied lavender scents, and a smoky note builds in the glass. Nicely concentrated yet energetic, offering intense raspberry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors supported by a spine of juicy acidity. Clings with strong tenacity on a gently tannic, floral-dominated finish that leaves behind floral and star anise notes."

The Wine Advocate scored this 92+ saying "The 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape La Fleur de Capucine was showing hints of reduction when tasted in June (compared to the 2015 tasted last year in September). Struck match notes marked the nose, along with hints of black olive and mocha. Full-bodied and intense, this all-Grenache, wood-aged cuvée (demi-muids) is richly tannic and black fruited, with a long finish."