Still maturing in concrete at the time of my visit, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Gallimardes comes from the lieu-dit of the same name, located south of the village. It's a classic galets roulés-and-clay terroir, with the old-vine Grenache that makes up 90% of the assemblage planted around 1903 (the Syrah component is more recent). Concentrated black cherries dominate the nose, yet this full-bodied effort is remarkably silky and fresh, with its long finish marked by a zesty-briny note.
BOW (8.50)
Vinous (94)
The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Galimardes aged for 18 months in a combination of new oak barriques and concrete vats. It offers up intense aromas of rose petals, very ripe red fruits, exotic spices and a dash of white pepper. Compared to the Tradition, the 2020 Les Galimardes has a higher proportion of Grenache, a little bit less Syrah and no Mourvèdre at all. The result is a massively concentrated, full-bodied red with a firm tannic structure balanced by lively acidity. What both wines have in common is their hedonistic appeal and age-worthiness.
James Suckling (94)
A great classic with loads of damson plums, dark berries, mocha and sweet spices. Full-bodied with finely grained tannins and a rich core of berries on the palate. Creamy and well put together. Fresh acidity with a dark cherry-like character emphasizes the flavorful and vibrant finish. 90% grenache and 10% syrah. Drink or hold.
Winespectator (95)
Offers inviting red currant and cassis flavors up front, layered with licorice root, fruitcake spices and charred mesquite. Though big-boned, this shows grace and polish, balance and finely cut texture. Reveals iron shavings and crushed herbes de Provence, which add a refreshing savory edge through a finish that goes on and on. Beautiful. Grenache and Syrah.
Falstaff (95)
Strong ruby colour, purple reflections. Inviting fruity nuances, blueberries, blackberry confit, some rosemary and nougat, fresh orange zest in the background. Deep, substantial, ripe red cherries, supporting tannins, mineral, good freshness. Some honey on the finish, nuances of figs on the back palate.
