2023 Chateauneuf du Pape

Darker berries, iron, crushed stone, pepper, and violet notes all shine in the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape, and it's medium-bodied, with a straight, focused, and clean mouthfeel revealing ripe tannins and outstanding length. Based on 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 6% Syrah, 3% Cinsault, and 1% Counoise from diverse terroirs, it was partially destemmed and aged in a combination of foudre, old barrels, and concrete. It's one of those wines that's perfectly made yet might just lack a touch of character, but I wouldn't be surprised to see it gain nuance and complexity over the coming 2-4 years, and it will certainly see its 15th birthday in fine form. Drink 2025-2040. Run by Stéphane Usseglio, this estate has gone from strength to strength over the past decade and is now making world-class wines. They recently completed a new state-of-the-art cellar on the northern edge of the village and farm around 45 acres, mostly in the center and northern part of the appellation. The range includes the traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the Girard (a tweaked version for importer Peter Wyngandt), the Mourvèdre-dominated La Part des Anges from les Terres Blanches, and the Cuvée Impériale, the flagship based on 95% Grenache from sandy soils of Farguerol and le Pied Long. They also make two stunning single varietal whites from the sandy soils of Bois Sénéchaux, a Pure Clairette and a Pure Roussanne. The 2023s and 2024s are sensational across the board.