Domaine La Boutiniere 2020 Tradition Rouge, Chateauneuf du Pape

Domaine La Boutiniere was founded in 1920 by Félix Vidal. This family-owned company is now run by fourth-generation winemaker, Frédéric Boutin, who has been the owner and winemaker since 1997. Domaine La Boutiniere has 27 acres of vineyards in eight different parcels within Châteauneuf-du-Pape, including the Crus of La Crau, Le Boucou, Coste Froid, and Roumiguière. Vines are an average of 70 years old and the wines are produced from all 13 grape varieties allowed in the Châteauneuf appellation.

Notes of sage and licorice on the nose. A complex palate with red currant, crushed raspberry and berries. The tannins are smooth and the mid-palate offers a singular freshness. Provençal herbs linger on the finish along with nutmeg and ginger.

Wine Enthusiast scored this 93 points saying, "High-toned red fruit aromas immediately take center stage, while rosehip, violets, mint leaves, brown button mushroom, coriander, earth and clove add depth. The palate is a bit austere, yet offers fine tannins that seem to be integrating well. Greater layers of complexities should unfold after cellaring well through 2035+."

Jeb Dunnuck gave this 91 points saying, "The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape is mostly Grenache (there's 10% each Syrah, Mourvedre, and Cinsault) and offers a semi-opaque ruby/purple hue to go with solid notes of kirsch, black cherries, licorice, and roasted garrigue. This round, medium to full-bodied, ripe, straight-up sexy Grenache has ripe yet present tannins, good overall balance, and a great finish. It's another impressive Châteauneuf du Pape in the vintage that has real character. It will keep for 10-12 years with no issues. It's the finest release of this cuvée I've tasted."

Wine Advocate gave it 91 points as well, saying, "Composed of 70% Grenache and 10% each Cinsault, Mourvèdre and Syrah, La Boutiniere's 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape is sourced from several different soil types. The result includes copious cherries, some peppery spice and a hint of clove. It's full-bodied, smooth and supple, almost creamy in feel, with a long, mellow finish and softly dusty tannins. It should drink well for at least a decade."

Wine Spectator also scored this 91 points saying, “A dark, brooding wine, this opens up to reveal a lovely mix of rich steeped plum and bitter cherry interwoven with cracked pepper, incense and black tea, with a note of toasted sandalwood. Shows some grip on the finish, which keeps this dry and clean. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2030. 1,333 cases made, 648 cases imported.”