Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe “La Crau” Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2008

92 points Wine Spectator Still tight, with the core of cherry and red currant fruit held in check by a mix of lightly firm sandalwood, spice, liquorice root and warm stone flavours. Mulled fig and cocoa notes check in on the grippy finish. A rare backward style 2008 that will need some cellaring to round into form. Best from 2013 through 2020. 90 points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar Bright ruby. Lively, musky aromas of red berries, cherry, anise, earth and spices, augmented by hints of lavender and resin. Energetic, focused redcurrant and bitter cherry flavours show good definition and pick up minerality with air. Taut on the back end, finishing with solid grip and very good, tangy persistence. I like this wine’s vivacity and balance.