2013 Chateauneuf du Pape

Boiron’s 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape is a classically styled blend of 70% Grenache, 17% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and the rest other permitted varieties. Raised mostly in foudres, it offers ample Provençal garrigue, pepper, tobacco leaf and assorted darker fruits to go with a medium-bodied, nicely concentrated and balanced feel on the palate. Like with the Chante le Merle cuvee, it has plenty of tannin, so give it a year or two in the cellar.

Ruby-red. Smoky red berry and cherry scents show good clarity and pick up a spicy element with air. Supple, open-knit and appealingly sweet, with a hint of white pepper sharpening the zesty redcurrant and raspberry flavors. The spicy quality repeats on the clinging finish, which shows just hint of dusty tannins. I suspect that this wine will provide plenty of appeal soon after release.