Medium red. Stunning floral and red berry aromas emphasize raspberry, strawberry and fresh lavender. Bright, focused and pure, with vibrant red fruit and mineral flavors given an exotic twist by a hint of dried apricot. The sweet finish leaves a strong floral pastille impression. The freshness and precision of this wine are really captivating.

The different components that will go into the 2004 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape were tasted and rated between 91 and 94, so it looks like a wine that should turn out well. It doesn’t seem to have the power and richness of the 2003, but it is complex and aromatic, revealing loads of kirsch and raspberry fruit. Medium to full-bodied as well as beautifully knit, it should drink well for 10-15 years. Importer: Martine’s Wines, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400

The deep ruby 2004 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape is a structured wine that seems to have closed down from the component part tasting last year. It is medium-bodied with sweet, ripe black cherry and raspberry notes, some crushed rocks, and that distinctive minerality that Rayas seems to provide. The wine reveals more structure this year, and therefore seems to need 2-4 years of bottle age and should keep for 15-16. Stylistically, it is more than just a coincidence that it resembles the 1994, which has turned out very well and is beginning to drink beautifully in the classic Rayas style. Drink: 2009 - 2023
-Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #169 Feb 2007