Wine Advocate - Score: 94 ()

One of the vintage's top wines, the 2008 Chateauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous continues to drink splendidly. Brandied cherries and dried herbs mark the nose, while the full-bodied palate is velvety and open-knit, with shadings of cocoa and a bit of savory, meaty development. It does dry out a bit as it sits in the glass, but it should continue to drink well through 2020 at least.

Vinous - Score: 91 (2011 May)

Bright red. A complex bouquet offers black raspberry, cherry and a strong note of licorice. Coats the palate with dark berry and bitter cherry flavors and picks up an exotic floral quality with air. A spicy quality adds vivacity to a long, penetrating finish. This looks like it will age.