2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin

Crafted from vines planted on sandy soils, the 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin, a 100% Grenache Noir partly destemmed, exhales a somber, elegant bouquet of dark cherries, spices, flowers and licorice mingled with oxidative notes with air. Medium to full-bodied, firm, dense and extracted, it has an assertive tannic frame and concludes with a long, dry and dense finish. While undoubtedly powerful, the oxidative style and prominent tannins seem unbalanced, detracting from its overall harmony.

100% Grenache. Partially destemmed and vinified in concrete tanks. Aged for 12 months in foudres (70%) and demi-muids (30%). Cask sample. Tasted blind. The nose has plenty to offer – smoked meat, black tea and lavender. A powerful and dense, layered and rich palate with so much intensity. Meaty and also herbal. So tightly wound and powerful, with richness, texture and weight. This should age beautifully. (AC)

The magnificent 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Chaupin is at eye level with the equally stunning 2020. Expressive orange rind, forest strawberry, crushed violets, raspberry and licorice rise up from the glass. Offering a gentler tannic core and softer overall mouthfeel than the Vieilles Vignes from the same vintage, the focused 2022 Chaupin is right up there with the finest vintages this cuvée has ever seen. Bravo!