2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Felix

Slightly deeper hued, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Des Felix is based on 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 5% Syrah, and the rest a mix of varieties and sees a slightly longer élevage in demi-muids (30%) and very old barrels (70%). Blackcurrants, roasted herbs, gamey meats, tobacco, and ground pepper are just some of the nuances here, and this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, concentrated mid-palate, and building, substantial tannins. Despite all the structure here, it stays balanced and is a sensational bottle of wine. It's going to need 5-7 years to hit the early stages of maturity and will have 25 years or more of prime drinking. Readers looking for gorgeous, classic, traditional Châteauneuf du Pape need look no further. Proprietor Jean-Paul Versino continues to make a classic, traditional style of Châteauneuf du Pape that I continue to buy and cellar. While his 2019s are some of the finest I’ve tasted, the 2020s aren’t far behind.

60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 5% Syrah, 5% others. Certified organic. Aged in a mix of demi-muid (30%) and used barriques (70%). Cask sample. Tasted blind. Not very expressive at the moment – the sample seems to show a little oxidation. Behind this there is good fruit and vibrancy, however, and I suspect that the sample is just slightly out of condition. Hard to score! (AC)