2018 Chateauneuf du Pape

Saturated ruby. Ripe, smoke- and spice-accented cherry, dark berry, licorice and floral qualities on the highly perfumed nose. Stains the palate with sweet cherry preserve and blackberry flavors that take on baking spice, vanilla and candied lavender accents as the wine stretches out. Shows very good depth as well as energy and finishes long and chewy, with dusty tannins making a late appearance.

The 2018 Châteauneuf du Pape is a Syrah-heavy blend that’s close to equal parts Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre. It reveals the usual semi-opaque ruby color that’s common in the vintage as well as an already complex, Provençal bouquet of black raspberries, garrigue, spice box, and dried flowers. Medium-bodied, with sweet tannins and a charming, elegant style, this beauty is ideal for enjoying over the coming 10-12 years.