What was that LOUD bang? Oh, it must have been this monstrous Châteauneuf deal dropping in your inbox! A collectible for the ages, for under $50? Commendable indeed. Just to warn you though, this BEAST is not for the faint of heart. It’s a sumo wrestler of a Rhône, thanks to its unusually high percentage of beefy, dark Mourvèdre, that manages to perform in utter grace and sophistication despite its sheer immensity…

Black as night in the core, with the skinniest of a bright glowing magenta/purple circumference. The nose is redolent with classic aromas of raspberries, black currants and cherries, mingling with dried meats and herbs. Full-bodied and bold on the palate, rich, as well as precise, deep with wonderful delineation, and superb concentration towards the back. A stunning 60-second plus finale that lasts on and on, with massive tannins needing time, or air, becomes apparent on the finish. Warranting the earthy side of truffles, the umami side of reduction sauces, and decadent spices, this wine is too big for delicate foods, so take caution.

While this unique Cuvée truly marks a quality Renaissance in the appellation, the Domaine gets so many accolades every vintage that it’s best to leave the microphone to them. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate; “One of the superb newer producers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine de Cristia has come on like gangbusters over the last decade, since proprietors Alain and Baptiste Grangeon took over from his father in 1999 and have re-written this estate’s book on quality in a short period of time. All of Cristia’s vineyards are in the northeast sector of the appellation, not far from the Rayas vineyard.” and Parker’s protégé Jeb Dunnuck see eye to eye; “Winemaker Baptiste Grangeon has been on a roll over the past decade with these wines from his family estate. These are ripe, powerful wines that never lose their Southern Rhône soul.”

Back to that loud noise we heard. 96-points, just $49 after 45% off, 3+ shipped free… KABOOM!

Here’s what the wine press has to say:

96 Points – Wine Spectator - “This has an intense core of crushed plum, raspberry and boysenberry fruit flavors, draped with melted licorice notes and backed by a wave of warm fruitcake. Hedonistic for sure, but accents of anise, violet and singed apple wood dart around, adding extra facets of intrigue to hold your attention. Grenache and Mourvèdre. 150 cases imported. Best from 2020 through 2040.”

95 Points – Jeb Dunnuck - “ Baptiste Grangeon makes a more progressive/modern style of Châteauneuf du Pape with his Domaine de Cristia releases, primarily with his Cuvée Renaissance, which sees some new oak. Nevertheless, all these wines ooze Provencal charm and character. The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Renaissance is a gem and as always is a 60/40 split of Grenache and Mourvèdre brought up in demi-muids and smaller barrels (one-third new). Blackcurrants, blackberries, wine marinade, licorice, and pepper all emerge from this opulent, incredibly sexy beauty that has full-bodied richness, sweet tannin and more mid-palate depth and richness than most. It’s going to need 3-4 years of cellaring to hit its stride and last for 15+. Drink 2020-2035.”