Chateau Rayas Reserve Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2009
(Southern Rhone, France) - [WA 98] [JD 97] [VM 94]

About the winery:
Chateau Rayas, one of the region's most prestigious estates, is also one of the world's most mysterious estates. This small 30-acre estate is owned by the Reynaud family, which dates back to the late 19th century. The estate has always had an image of secrecy and seclusion. Following the death of Jacques Reynaud in 1997, his nephew, Emmanuel took over, and he continues to produce wines that go from strength to strength. Emmanuel Reynaud, who is also the proprietor of the outstanding Vacqueyras estate called Domaine des Tours, has the same eccentric idiosyncrasies as his uncle.

Located not far from Courthézon, it is unusual because its vines are north-facing and contain none of the fabled round pebbles (galets roulés). During vinification, each varietal of every vineyard is fermented separately in oak casks, with assemblage taking place in enamel-lined tanks before bottling.

Ratings & Reviews

98 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"The 2009 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape is an awesome example of elegance combined with extraordinary power. The alcohol levels must be between 15.5% and 16%, but the elegance and sublime nature of this wine make it irresistible. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by an extraordinary bouquet of framboise, black cherry liqueur intermixed with blacker fruits, licorice and a hint of flowers. Pure with terrific layers of fruit concentration (although it's remarkably light on its feet), silky tannins, well-integrated acidity and a stunning personality, this monumental Rayas is breathtaking. This beauty will undoubtedly be drinkable early on (although Emmanuel Reynaud considers that to be infanticide), and it is capable of lasting 25-30 years." – Robert Parker (Oct 2011)

97 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2009 Châteauneuf Du Pape Reserve from Rayas is a beauty that shows the hallmark elegance and complexity of this estate paired with plenty of opulence and sweet fruit. Incredible Provençal notes of kirsch liqueur, herbes de Provence, framboise, and flowery incense all emerge from the glass, and it’s full-bodied, has sweet tannins, and an almost over-the-top personality that’s a joy to drink. It’s impossible to resist today yet will evolve for 25-30 years or more. This comes closest in my mind to the 2007 with its opulent, sexy style." (2/13/2020)

96 Points - Vinous Media:
"(basically 100% grenache): Deep red with a bright rim. A kaleidoscopic bouquet evokes red and dark berry preserves, blood orange and lavender, with deeper cherry pit and licorice qualities adding power. Sweet, expansive and pure, offering intense raspberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors supported by a firm spine of acidity. Shows excellent clarity and power on the finish, which is given shape by fine-grained, sweet tannins. I underestimated this wine from barrel last year." – Josh Raynolds (Jan 2012)