Reminding me of the 2005 (as well as the 1989) with its rich, powerful, muscular style, the 2015 Châteauneuf Du Pape Réserve Des Célestins reveals a deep, almost opaque ruby/purple hue as well as a great nose of blackcurrant and plum-like fruits intermixed with notions of smoked meats, chocolate, Asian hoisin sauce, and roasted garrigue. This full-bodied, concentrated Châteauneuf has building yet ripe tannins, flawless balance, and a meaty, bloody character that develops with air. It's not as ripe or exotic as the 2016, but its tannins are much riper and more polished than past vintages, and this is just loaded with potential. It needs to be forgotten for just 3-4 years, but it will be a 30-year wine.

Beginning to show a floral side, this is very smooth and silky on the palate, just starting to show some toasty, demerara sugar development. A powerful style, quite butch, needs time.