2005 Clos Saint-Michel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée

2005 Clos Saint-Michel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée – France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape (1/28/2008)
Black cherries, kirsch, black coffee and spices on the nose; the palate adds refreshing acidity, a hint of spicy wood, some tabacco and a good finish. Good balance, not hot in any way, good balance. Difficult to judge at this stage, but certainly a serious wine; however the regular cuvee is at present more enjoyable. Needs a bit of bottle age. The score is probably too conservative. The third day after opening this was really singing, with the emphasize on the elegant and bright fruit. This can and must clearly age some years. (91 pts.)