2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Fiancee
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
In years when Julian Barrot holds some extra Syrah out of his signature bottling, he creates this cuvée, which is a 50-50 blend of Grenache and Syrah. The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Fiancee (last made in 2016), starts off a bit tarry-rubbery, but it clears up quickly to deliver blueberry and cherry fruit tinged with hints of peppery spice. It's full-bodied, smooth and supple, finishing lush and easy to drink. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent notes.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The Syrah-heavy 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Fiancée (55% Grenache and 45% Syrah) was brought up 50% in foudre and the rest in demi-muids. It’s another dense, rich 2019 offering building tannins and structure as well as a beautiful nose of red and blue fruits supported by lots of peppery, meaty, spicy nuances. This rich, concentrated effort stays light and balanced, with good freshness and remarkable purity. I’m generally not a fan of the Syrah-heavy releases from the Southern Rhône, but this will make a believer out of anyone. Unfortunately, no 2020s were submitted to my tasting, but as I hope these reviews show, the 2019s from this address are some of the finest out there.