2024 Chateauneuf du Pape

Tasted from multiple foudres as well as the final blend, the 2024 Châteauneuf Du Pape shows the classy, elegant style of the vintage with its medium ruby hue and vibrant, fresh character. Ripe black cherries, pepper, garrigue, assorted spice, and violets define the aromatics, with increasing floral nuances emerging with air. It's medium-bodied on the palate, with fine tannins, outstanding length, and terrific overall balance that should surpass both the 2008 and 2021. Paul-Vincent Avril continues to be one of the most talented and passionate winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape today. From his estate located on the southern end of the village and pulling from roughly 90 acres of vines spread throughout the appellation, he makes a single white and red Châteauneuf-du-Pape and has resisted the urge to produce any special cuvées. The red is always based on roughly 55-60% Grenache, 20-30% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, and the rest a mix of permitted varieties, completely destemmed and aged entirely in older foudre in a temperature-controlled cellar. Always from tiny yields, his Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a staunchly traditional and world-class wine that always shines for its elegance and texture. The 2024 red shows the classy, elegant style of the vintage and should surpass both the 2008 and 2021, while the 2023 brings more depth and concentration. The whites here are sensational, with the 2023 showing a touch more depth and volume compared to the 2024.