Chateauneuf du Pape Pignan Rayas 2011

Château Rayas is one of the great French wine names of the modern era. Established by Albert Reynaud in 1880, Château Rayas rose to legendary status under the stewardship of the elusive yet engaging figure of Jacques Reynaud, who took over the management of the estate in 1978. His son, Emmanuel, has been in charge since 1997 and the Rayas star continues to rise. The Pignan cuvée - named after the towering pine trees with border the domaine - is the second wine of the domaine.. As with the flagship Château Rayas cuvée, it is made from 100% Grenache. "Bright ruby-red. Intense raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by notes of anise and lavender. Juicy and expansive, with appealingly sweet red fruit flavours and a touch of bitter herbs. Finishes spicy and long, with lingering cherry pit and floral qualities." Vinous, 2103