More substantial and interesting, the 2004 Chateauneuf Du Pape Cuvee des Generations Gaston Philippe (close to equal parts Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre aged all in new oak) pumps out impressive amounts of dark fruits, currants, black licorice, roasted herbs, nori and scorched earth on both the nose and palate. Full-bodied, rich and textured, with fine tannin and good acidity, it’s a youthful 2004 that’s just now entering maturity. Enjoy it over the coming decade.
This larger estate covers more than 50 hectares, all in the western section of the appellation, mostly on the pebble soils of the Mont Redon plateau. Made by Marie-Odile Brunel, all four of these wines are noteworthy, and I was seriously impressed by both of the whites, which were still youthful and vibrant.