“The smallest production cuvée is the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Le Secret des Sabon, which is a field blend of primarily Grenache that’s brought up all in oak tanks. It sports a deep ruby color, full body, terrific Grenache notes of black raspberries, scorched earth, currants and roasted herbs, sweet tannin and a killer finish. It’s more streamlined and elegant than the 2007 or 2010, but should surpass the 2009, which seems to be on a fast evolutionary track. 94-96pts.”
Wine Advocate
“Lurid ruby-red. Exotic, highly perfumed aromas of candied red and blue fruits, incense and peppery spices slowly take on a hint of potpourri. Fleshy and seamless on the palate, offering raspberry and cherry liqueur and floral pastille flavors and a spicy hint of white pepper. Shows outstanding clarity and power on the impressively long finish, which is framed by suave, slow-building tannins. 93-95pts.”
Vinous
“Sabon is an exceptional source of traditional Châteauneuf-du-Papa where the expression of fruit and terroir is everything and oak is applied judiciously. Sabon makes velvety wines with silky concentration, flesh and finesse utilising modern foudrés and some casks for elevage. Jean-Jacque’s son-in-law Didier Negron has assumed the winemaking and has further lifted the bar at this already first-class benchmark Châteauneuf estate.”
Euan Mckay
