Vieux Telegraphe, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, La Crau Rouge 2007

Saturated ruby. Youthfully brooding nose displays dark berries, tobacco and licorice, plus an undercurrent of smoky minerals. More powerful than what I expect from this estate, boasting deep, chewy cassis and bitter cherry flavors and a late note of bitter chocolate. Impressive for its richness and size, but will it gain the finesse that I associate with this domain?

• Reviewer Name: Josh Raynolds
• Review Date: December 2014