“2019 is truly an impressive vintage that produced some monumental wines.Yielding rich, powerful wines that have full-bodied, structured profiles that are going to benefit from bottle age. This is an exceptional vintage for the Southern Rhône that checks in just behind all-time greats such as 2016, 2010, 2007, 2001 & 1998.”

A tiny production, yet always stellar cuvee, the 2019 Secrets de Pignan comes from a one of the top terroirs in a famous vineyard located in the heart of the appellation. 100% Grenache vinified in stainless steel. Layered, complex, ripe, sexy notes of blueberries, black cherries, melted licorice, candied violets and some classic terroir notes all flow to a powerful, ripe, opulent wine that has soft, ripe yet present tannins and a great, great finish. This is one sexy Chateauneuf du Pape that’s already drinking nicely yet should evolve nicely for the next 15 years! Bravo to Eric Bonnet!

The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Secrets de Pignan-a tank-aged 100% Grenache from the sandy soils of Pignan (Nord)-offers more intensity than the regular cuvée, and more red-fruit flavors as well. Raspberries, cherries and hints of resinous herbs mark the nose, while the full-bodied palate is rich, velvety and long on the finish, with just a hint of warmth coming through, offset by attractive dried-spice notes. Compared to previous recent vintages, it's a bit less complex and charming.