Critic Reviews

Paul-Vincent Avril continues to be one of the most talented and passionate winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape today. From his estate located on the southern end of the village and pulling from roughly 90 acres of vines spread throughout the appellation, he makes a single white and red Châteauneuf-du-Pape and has resisted the urge to produce any special cuvées. The wine is always a blend of 60% Grenache 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and the rest a mix of permitted varieties, aged all in older foudre in a temperature-controlled and humidified cellar. His Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a staunchly traditional and world-class wine that always shines for its elegance and texture. Time will tell, but my money is on his 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape being the greatest wine ever made at this address, although the 2007 from my cellar will give it a run for its money.
Another perfect wine from this brilliant estate is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which matches the otherworldly 2007. A classic blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah brought up all in old foudre, this beauty’s deep purple color is followed by a mammoth bouquet of kirsch liqueur, black currants, blueberries, Asian spices, and garrigue. Full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, it nevertheless is as graceful as a ballerina on the palate and has ultra-fine tannins, a silky, seamless texture, and a finish that just won’t quit. Hats off to vigneron Paul-Vincent Avril!

100 points Jeb Dunnuck