2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Felix

Also not yet bottled the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée des Felix offers a similar level of concentration, yet is more tight, structured, and elegant. Currants, scorched earth, leather, and ground pepper notes give way to a full-bodied, powerful, concentrated 2016 that's going to benefit from short-term cellaring yet cruise for two decades. This cuvée is 65% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre, and the rest a mix of varieties, all aged in very old barrels. I continue to love the wines of Jean-Paul Versino, and these are as classic and traditional as they come.

Deeper and more concentrated than the regular bottling, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Felix is otherwise reasonably similar, with dark fruit flavors, ample weight and a soupçon of dried spices. Cola and plum are joined by hints of allspice and clove in this rich, velvety wine.

Limpid violet. Expressive aromas of ripe red berries, lavender and smoky minerals reveal a subtle garrigue nuance with aeration. Juicy, concentrated and energetic on the palate, offering pliant, spice-accented raspberry liqueur and cherry flavors that become sweeter and more energetic with air. Shows noteworthy depth and finishes very long and youthfully tannic; a lingering mineral note adds urgency and lift.