ROGER SABON Chateauneuf-du-Pape 'Reserve' - Rhone Valley 2020 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve is an exceptional wine that perfectly embodies the character of the Rhône, receiving high praise from critics. James Suckling awards it 93 points, highlighting its well-composed structure with notes of cherries, red berries, warm herbs, and baking spices, complemented by fine tannins. Vinous also rates it 93 points, noting vibrant aromas of blood orange, juicy red and black fruits, and a polished, full-bodied palate. Decanter gives it 93 points for its ripe strawberry and blackberry jam aromas, which enhance its bold character. The Wine Advocate scores it 91-93 points, praising its concentrated and complex profile. With aging potential until 2035, this remarkable red wine is perfect for enjoying on special occasions or with hearty meals.

ABOUT THE WINE

JAMES SUCKLING 93 points
A well-composed, well-built and precise red with notes of cherries, red berries warm herbs, baking spices and a touch of stones. It's full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Juicy core of dark cherries and blue fruit at the center. Pulpy and serious with great drive and a focused, persistent finish. Try after 2026.

VINOUS 93 points
Drinking Window 2026 - 2040
From: Châteauneuf-du-Pape New Releases: Welcome to the Pleasuredome (Jun 2023)
The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve is made with 10% Mourvèdre, instead of using 10% Cinsaut like in the Les Olivets. This adjustment accentuates the overall structure and contributes hints of earthiness. The 2020 Réserve bursts from the glass with aromas of blood orange, juicy red and black fruits, licorice, mint, forest floor and dried herbs. Polished and well-built, this full-bodied red shows good persistence on the distinctively savory finish. I have no doubts that it will celebrate its 20th birthday in great shape.- By Nicolas Greinacher on April 2023

DECANTER 93 points
Tasted by: Matt Walls
(at United Kingdom, 10 Sep 2023)
Part of Walls: 26 value Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines to try
Drinking Window: 2023 - 2032
Strawberry and blackberry jam aromas; this is enjoyably ripe and ready for business. Full, open-knit, generous, juicy. Quite punchy in terms of tannin and alcohol, it certainly provides a classic, bold Châteauneuf experience. Herbal savoury notes help to bring some complexity, and it has a chewy, gutsy texture. Should improve, too.

THE WINE ADVOCATE (91-93) points
Reviewed by: Joe Czerwinski
Drink Date: 2023 - 2035
A blend of 80% Grenache with 10% each Mourvèdre and Syrah, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve marries hints of dried flowers with black cherries and a touch of cocoa. Full-bodied and concentrated, this is less flattering to taste than the Les Olivets at this stage, but it should still be excellent in time.

-----

ABOUT THE PRODUCER
Roger Sabon is a prestigious winery located in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation of the Southern Rhône Valley, France. Founded in the 1950s by Roger Sabon, the estate has been family-run for generations and is renowned for producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

The vineyards span approximately 40 hectares and are planted primarily with Grenache, along with other varietals such as Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery is committed to sustainable farming practices, allowing the vines to thrive in the region’s diverse soils, which include gravel, sand, and clay.

Roger Sabon is particularly known for its rich, full-bodied red wines, characterized by deep fruit flavors, earthy notes, and well-integrated tannins. The estate's offerings include a range of cuvées, from traditional blends to single varietals, showcasing the complexity and elegance that Châteauneuf-du-Pape is famous for.

Under the guidance of the Sabon family, the winery continues to produce high-quality wines, garnering recognition and acclaim from critics and wine enthusiasts alike. The estate embodies the spirit of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, combining tradition with a commitment to excellence, making Roger Sabon a treasured name in the world of fine wine.