Châteauneuf du Pape, 2021

This continues to be one of our absolute favourite Châteauneufs. The most beautiful, seamless dark and red fruits envelop the bouquet, despite its pixelated, herbal streak and cool, shimmering stony feel. The fluidity and freshness of this is simply glorious. Clear cut with fine, sandy tannins with real depth and power, it is all in harmony and by no means light, superb. From a blend of grapes coming from vines in the Grand Pierre and Pointu sectors just south of Rayas where plantations are 85% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre and the rest a mixture of other permitted co-planted varieties. Whole bunch, spontaneous yeast-fermented and aged in old oak tonneaux for two springs.