2005 Chapoutier St. Joseph Les Granits Rouge

From magnum.  13.5% abv. 5 hours in decanter before dinner. Benefits from as much aeration as possible. Gets really good after 8 hours of air.

Finally opening up, blackberry fruit complemented by incisive acidity, stony minerality, olive accents... a bit of kirsch, white pepper and allspice coming in on the finish. Subtle violet and game on the nose. 

Made in a classic style. Will try to hold off a few years before tapping into another magnum.

Paired nicely with Chateaubriand, sauteed Brussels sprouts, corn pudding.