Rich and ripe but fresh and light on its feet, with a seductive, silky texture to the mix of cherry puree, raspberry reduction and mulled plum flavors. Shows anise, black tea and incense notes that lend a perfumed air all the way through the warm earth-tinged finish. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault. Best from 2023 through 2038. 2,500 cases made, 500 cases imported. - JM

Bright ruby. Vibrant, spice-accented aromas of raspberry and cherry liqueur, incense and pungent flowers are accompanied by a smoky mineral nuance that builds in the glass. Deep-pitched yet impressively lively as well, offering intense red and dark berry liqueur and floral pastille flavors that stain the palate and show superb clarity and minerally lift. Closes extremely long, focused and lively, with silky tannins framing the wine's sweet fruit. This is about as good as a "basic" Châteauneuf gets.

The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape showed beautifully, with a ripe, classic, Provençal bouquet of black raspberry, strawberries, and darker berry fruits as well as spice, garrigue, and pepper. Beautifully textured, full-bodied, yet all about finesse and elegance, it's overflowing with character and charm. It's going to shine for 15 years with no issues.