2017 Chateauneuf du Pape

The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape checks in as 48% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 22% Mourvèdre brought up largely in foudres, with small amounts in old barrels and concrete tanks. Deeply colored (more so than normal) with powerful notes of blackberries, currants, ground pepper, leafy herbs, and hints of seaweed wrappers (think sushi wrappers), it hits the palate with a full-bodied concentrated, powerful style that carries polished tannins, ample fruit, and a great finish. Marking a subtle shift in style here, this red will benefit from 3-4 years of bottle age. The team of the Cazes family have done wonders with this estate, and they continue to deliver incredible quality in just about every vintage.

Domaine Sénéchaux has turned out a lovely 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape. Pencil shavings accent mixed red and black cherries on the nose, adding hints of baking spices and vanilla. It's a blend of 48% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 22% Mourvèdre, aged mainly in foudres, with some barrels mixed in, and 10% staying in concrete tanks. Full-bodied, supple, ripe and intense, it's modern in style and hits all the marks yet retains a sense of restraint. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent results.