Châteauneuf du Pape, Julien Barrot,

The wine that used to be called “Signature.” Robust and structured for sure, there are lots of tannins, but with a velvet gloss. Brooding dark sapid fruits, notes of pine pepper and sandalwood alongside the ripe bramble and cassis fruit. Powerful, solid but with length and great complexity. One to tuck away. A blend of 14 parcels, mainly old vines Grenache (50 to 100 years old), with 20% Mourvedre and the balance made up of Syrah and Cinsault. Aged in large old wooden casks.