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Jean-Marc Diffonty’s flagship red is a rich, opulent, no holds barred style of Châteauneuf. The intensity and complexity of red berry and dark fruit, with a rich seam of spice, is impressive. A 97-point red from this intensely flavoured vintage.
Jean-Marc Diffonty’s flagship red is a rich, opulent, no holds barred style of Châteauneuf. The intensity and complexity of red berry and dark fruit, with a rich seam of spice, is impressive. A 97-point red from this intensely flavoured vintage.
Tasting notes
Still very young, full of intense fruit and sweet velvety tannins
Aroma
Blackberry and raspberry, with liquorice, herb and oak notes
Allergy information
Contains sulphites
More information
Robert Parker loves this domaine’s “powerful, rich, in your face style of wine”. That just describes the estate’s standard Châteauneuf. Having said that, this is no blockbuster, but has elegance, length and balance. This is fourth generation Jean-Marc Diffonty’s flagship red. He selects the finest Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah from the oldest (100+ years) vines, then ages the wine for a year in oak, 7% of that new, to craft a consistently brilliant red that attracts awards every year. 2017 was a small vintage, which has resulted in extra power and wines that will age. So if you can, tuck away some bottles. Château Sixtine will reward your patience as its gorgeous rich flavours open out. If you can’t wait, decant two hours before serving.