2023 Chateauneuf du Pape

Bottled in May and based on 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, and the rest a mix of permitted varieties, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape was completely destemmed and brought up entirely in foudre. Its medium ruby hue is followed by a gorgeously complex nose of red and black fruits, Provençal spices, and roasted meats. It's medium to full-bodied, with a seamless, layered, ultra-classy style that will drink beautifully for 20-25 years. Drink 2025-2048. Paul-Vincent Avril continues to be one of the most talented and passionate winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape today. From his estate located on the southern end of the village and pulling from roughly 90 acres of vines spread throughout the appellation, he makes a single white and red Châteauneuf-du-Pape and has resisted the urge to produce any special cuvées. The red is always based on roughly 55-60% Grenache, 20-30% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, and the rest a mix of permitted varieties, completely destemmed and aged entirely in older foudre in a temperature-controlled cellar. Always from tiny yields, his Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a staunchly traditional and world-class wine that always shines for its elegance and texture. The 2024 red shows the classy, elegant style of the vintage and should surpass both the 2008 and 2021, while the 2023 brings more depth and concentration. The whites here are sensational, with the 2023 showing a touch more depth and volume compared to the 2024.