96pts Wine Spectator

Thoroughly primal, with a torrent of raspberry and boysenberry fruit rushing forth. Only shows hints of its full range, with licorice, incense, graphite and mocha flavors fluttering in the background. Has an iron-clad structure, with a long finish that shows great cut and grip. 

94pts Wine Advocate

Showing brilliantly, with a deep, rich and layered profile, the straight 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape has gorgeous black cherry, earth, underbrush and background meatiness that gives way to a full-bodied, concentrated and pure feel on the palate. A foudre-aged blend of 30% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 5% Cinsault, with the balance a mix of the other permitted varieties, this knockout Chateauneuf du Pape will have another 10-15 years of prime drinking.

93pts Jeb Dunnuck

Rich and meaty with stunning dark fruit, licorice, truffle and earthy notes; the 2004 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape has beautiful purity and impressive richness given the vintage. The palate is medium to full bodied with a tight, young and structured feel, plenty of fruit and ripe tannins on the finish. I'd be happy to have a couple of these in the cellar.  Rating: 93+

91pts Wine & Spirits

This takes hours in the glass to reveal its potential. Then its silken texture begins to let up aromas of cedar and spice and the flavors deepen, becoming meatier even while brighter notes of red cherry begin to shine. Those flavors last, strong and long, feeling complete.

Winemaker Notes

An exceptional vintage, very small production because of the 2003 impact and severe mistral for 9 days at 70km/h. High pressure and great weather guaranteed no rain.

This wine can be drunk while its young and fresh but deserves to be cellared for a few years to gain in complexity.