Charvin’s 2022 Le Poutet demonstrates all of Laurent Charvin’s superb skills that make his Châteauneuf such a reference-point expression of charm and finesse. This single parcel just across the Châteauneuf boundary line shows its pedigree in spades. The aromatic profile is a classic study in fruit purity – bright red raspberry, tart cherries, kirsch, and red plum all show up in clear fashion with outstanding definition and restraint. Of course, you’ll also find the requisite fragrant garrigue and lavender notes, as well as underlying hints of white pepper from the Syrah component. The wine truly impresses on the palate, where the flavor profile largely mimics the nose with an added layer of fine, stony minerality. The texture and structure achieve next-level refinement and precision, with firm, exceptionally balanced tannins and acid lending a vibrant, overly fresh mouthfeel to support all the deep, pure fruit flavors. It’s not a stretch to say that the 2022 Le Poutet drinks like a young Châteauneuf from an exceptional vintage like 2016, and the fact that everything is so evidently primary suggests it has the substance to cruise for a while in the cellar. Try finding another Côtes-du-Rhône with this level of finesse, precision, and terroir signature. You'll be looking for a long time.
92 points, Andrew Kitz, B-21 Rhone Buyer (Jul 2025)
A wealth of red fruit aromas are wrapped around an elegant core of fine tannins on the medium- to full-bodied palate. Excellent concentration and length for this appellation. So many delicate spice notes at the beautifully balanced finish A cuvee based on grenache. Bottled unfiltered.
92 points, Stuart Pigott, James Suckling (Apr 2024)
The 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Le Poutet checks in as 81% Grenache, 15% Syrah and Mourvèdre, and the remaining 4% Carignan. Coming from the sandy soils just across the border from Châteauneuf du Pape, near the estate in the northwest sector of the region, its medium ruby hue is followed by a classy bouquet of ripe red fruits, herbes de Provence, sandalwood, and hints of white pepper. I love its overall balance, and it's medium-bodied, elegant, has fine, polished tannins, and outstanding length. It will shine for a solid decade.
90 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Oct 2024)
Top Quality Store
