Chapoutier La Croix des Grives 2006

Voluptuous, smooth and deliciously rich, La Croix des Grives displays the dedication to quality that has seen the reputation of the Chapoutier family estate rise to the very top among Rhone producers. Family head Michael Chapoutier keeps fruit yields seriously low and handpicks only the ripest, old vine Syrah and Grenache the famous, full flavoured grapes of Chateauneuf du Pape. And the sun soaked 2006 vintage boosted flavour concentration to amazing levels ''extraordinary'' says Robert Parker ... and we'd have to agree! This exclusive cuvee has complex mouthfuls of red fruit and lovely hints of smoky spice. Wild herb aromas with velvet smooth brambly plumb flavours, this is world class quality at a realistic price. ''If you love the Rhone and you'd be crazy not to now is the time to buy!'' The Independent.