2014 Chateauneuf du Pape

Brilliant ruby-red. Smoke-accented aromas of red and dark berry preserves, star anise and candied flowers convey a subtle hint of garrigue in the background. Sweet, seamless and broad on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry and rose pastille flavors that turn spicier with air. Rich but vibrant as well, with no excess fat. Supple tannins build steadily on a very long, incisive finish that leaves behind notes of dark berries and candied flowers.

The 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape is a classic blend of 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Cinsault. Notes of sweet kirsch, currants, garrigue and while pepper all emerge from this medium-bodied, elegant and balanced Châteauneuf du Pape that shows the more forward, mid-weight style of the vintage. It has class and elegance, but I suspect it’s best consumed in its first decade or so.

Clairette, Roussanne. Fabulous aroma: green fruit, pear, clementine, creamy; intensity without extreme ripeness. Rich and broad and deep but still with the freshness of spiced pear on the finish. Youthfully delicious. (JH)