Famille Perrin, Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Rhône Valley, France) 2011

Both 2009 and 2010 were terrific years in the southern Rhône, so I was prepared to see a major drop-off in quality in 2011.  Well, as I continue to taste releases from this vintage, I’m still waiting to see that drop-off, and still not finding it.  This wine (made by the family behind Chateau Beaucastel in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, presumably from fruit that was predominantly purchased) is very expressive in both aromatic and flavor terms, with nice savory undertones, admirably restrained wood, and at least 5 to 7 years of positive development still ahead of it.  Attractively priced and styled to enjoy now or later, this is a strong value and an impressive effort