2021 Chateauneuf du Pape

Luckily, the 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée didn’t show any of the signs of reduction that it did when I first tasted it from barrel last year. Although not cruising at the same level as the two surrounding vintages, the 2021 offers a distinctively elegant character marked by garrigue , red/black cherry and undertones of meat and herbs. Round tannins gently structure this medium-bodied Cuvée Réservée that wraps up with a savory finish.

This has so much power and meaty depth for the 2021 vintage, also stacks of healthy tannins that give it great intensity at the very long and complete finish. It’s packed with licorice, tar and stony character that makes it hard to pull yourself away from its compelling hold. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.

Scents of leather, violets, cherries and strawberries mark the nose of the 2021 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Réservée, tasted as a representative assemblage from several foudres. Medium to full-bodied, it's silky but firm, with a long, slightly tannic finish.