2017 Chateauneuf du Pape

The entry-level 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape, still in barrel, offers up cedar and leather notes on the nose. It's plush and creamy, loaded with red berries and cherries, with a long, velvety finish. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.

75% Grenache (60 to 80 years old), 15% Syrah (40 years old), 10% Mourvèdre (60 to 80 years old). 50% destemmed. Fruit from: Plateau de Mont Redon, Les Bédines, La Crau, Cabrières and Pignan. 10 months ageing in one- and two-year-old barrels plus another 12 months in foudres (Allier,Tronçais). Mid crimson. Something just slightly stewed about the nose on this (the first of three 2017 Châteauneufs from this producer). Sweet and possibly a little overblown? I’m looking in vain for the freshness and structure of some of its stablemates from ‘lesser’ appellations. Slightly pinched, drying finish. (JR)

Blackberries, cassis, garrigue, and spicy characteristics all define the 2017 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Classique. Based on 75% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre sourced from a number of terroirs and brought up in concrete, it’s medium to full-bodied, has good mid-palate density, fine tannins, and terrific balance. It’s not a blockbuster but is very much in the style of the vintage.