2018 Chateauneuf du Pape La Dame Voyageuse

The more Grenache dominated cuvée from this great estate, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Dame Voyageuse is always made in a more charming, forward style compared to the La Reine des Bois release. The 2018 is a blend of 90% Grenache, 4% each of Syrah and Mourvedre, and the balance Vaccarèse and Counoise, all raised in old barrels and stainless steel. Ripe strawberries, red currants, toasted spice, and garrigue notes emerge from this classy, front end-loaded, already impossible to resist 2018. With soft tannins, a fleshy mid-palate, and a great finish, it’s ideal for drinking over the coming decade.

Round and supple, the full-bodied 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape La Dame Voyageuse is a large-scaled ball of plum and blackberry fruit and savory nuances. Hints of mocha, black olive and licorice bring added interest to this soft, easygoing offering that should be consumed over the next 6-8 years.

90% Grenache, 4% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre, 1% Vaccarèse, 1% Counoise. Aged for 10 months in concrete and old oak. Tank sample. Tasted blind. Tight, youthful, closed style. Tannic and tight on the palate. Deserves time to evolve. Enigmatic at present. (RH)