The 2016 Domaine de Saint-Prefert Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Auguste Favier is a remarkable red wine that exemplifies the best of the Rhone region in France. With a stunning image of the bottle showcasing its elegance and sophistication, this wine is a true gem.
Crafted from a proprietary blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Cinsault, this wine displays an enchanting bouquet of floral aromas that captivate the senses. Intoxicating notes of raspberry and cherry fruit dance on the palate, accompanied by enthralling hints of Swiss cocoa. The use of whole bunches and an elevated proportion of Cinsault contribute to the wine's soaring aromas and extraordinary sense of freshness. Despite its full-bodied and rich nature, it manages to maintain a nearly weightless quality, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
Renowned wine critic Joe Czerwinski of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine an impressive score of 97 points. He praises its velvety texture, spicy character, and pure, sweet black raspberry and kirsch notes. Czerwinski also highlights the wine's concentrated mid-palate and fresh, peppery, cherry-filled finish that lingers delightfully.
Jeb Dunnuck of jebdunnuck.com also lauds this wine, giving it a score of 97 points. He describes it as incredibly perfumed and complex, with full-bodied notes of currants, Asian spices, dried flowers, and lavender. Dunnuck notes that while it is powerful and concentrated, it remains light on its feet and beautifully balanced, showcasing the purity of fruit that is characteristic of the exceptional 2016 vintage.
The Wine Spectator awarded this wine a score of 97 points as well. They describe it as beautifully rendered, with a focused core of red currant, plum, and raspberry coulis flavors. The wine's complexity is enhanced by flecks of tobacco, bergamot, and singed sandalwood. A bolt of iron detail shines through the finish, accompanied by a light echo of worn leather. The Wine Spectator predicts that this well-built wine will show ample energy in reserve and recommends enjoying it from 2020 through 2040.
Decanter also recognizes the quality of this wine, giving it a score of 95 points. They praise its concentrated black cherry, juicy dark berries, and fig aromas. The wine showcases a tight squeeze of tannin, bright and juicy acidity, and a sense of purity and piercing freshness. Decanter describes it as powerful and generous, with a noticeable grain and heft to the texture, leading into a saline finish.
Jeff Leve of TheWineCellarInsider.com joins in the acclaim, awarding this wine a score of 97 points. He describes the wine's velvety textures, spicy character, and multiple layers of sweet, red and dark red fruits. Leve highlights the concentrated mid-palate and the fresh, peppery, cherry-filled finish that extends its pleasure.
Wine Enthusiast gives this wine a score of 93 points. They describe it as smoky and floral, with ripe, fleshy blackberry and raspberry flavors. The wine's plush texture is complemented by crisp granitic tones and fine-grained, densely packed tannins. Wine Enthusiast suggests that this wine will reach its peak from 2020 through 2026.
Overall, the 2016 Domaine de Saint-Prefert Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Auguste Favier is a wine that commands attention and respect. With its exceptional reviews and impressive scores, this wine is a must-have for any wine enthusiast. Its enchanting floral aromas, intoxicating fruit flavors, and velvety texture make it a true masterpiece from the Rhone region of France. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, this wine promises an unforgettable experience.