critic reviews
Vinified from fully destemmed grapes, the deep ruby-colored 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape develops with red and black plum, licorice, fresh violets, licorice and leafy elements. Full-bodied and polished, it touches the palate with a juicy core of fruit and finishes with good freshness on the bright resolution. Less overtly structured than the preceding 2022 vintage, the 2023 won’t require as much time to come around.
A blend of 60% Grenache Noir, 31% Syrah, 8% Mourvedre and a small percentage of other permitted varieties, the 2023 Chateauneuf du Pape from Chateau Mont-Redon is somewhat introverted and oak-driven, opening with aromas of toast, spices and licorice. Medium- to full-bodied, enveloping and creamy, it is dense and structured, with a fleshy core of fruit framed by assertive oak tannins. Well-balanced and competently executed, it remains, however, rather too marked by oak for my taste.