2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Cadettes

The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée des Cadettes is a blend of 48% Mourvèdre, 32% Syrah and 20% Grenache from vines with an average age of 80 years. Pronounced aromas of red and black fruits, thyme, mint, cloves, crème de cassis and a dash of white pepper usher in the 2020 Cuvée des Cadettes. The result is a terrific red with a muscular profile, framed by velvety tannins and balanced by lively acidity. Full-bodied and bold, the finish is persistent and has the edge over the 2019.

The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Des Cadettes is a solid step up. Based on 48% Mourvedre, 32% Syrah, and the rest Grenache, its deep purple hue is followed by an awesome bouquet of black cherries, earthy garrigue, pepper, and new leather. With medium to full body, ultra-fine tannins, and a layered, balanced mouthfeel, this beauty is going to benefit from 3-4 years of bottle age and drink fabulously well over the following 10-15 years. While 2021 is a good to great vintage for the whites of the Southern Rhône, I was blown away by the quality from Château La Nerthe. These are easily the finest whites I’ve tasted from this estate, and readers should jump on these wines. While no 2021 reds were presented, the 2020s showed beautifully and illustrated the classic, balanced, elegant style of the vintage.