2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin

Deeper colored, the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Chaupin comes mostly from the Chaupoin lieu-dit yet always has small parts from La Janasse and a sandy part of the La Crau lieu-dit. Blackberries, ground herbs, graphite, and new leather notes all emerge from this concentrated, rich, powerful wine that stays tight, focused, and elegant on the palate. It's a killer wine, but it's going to need time.

The all-Grenache 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin is sourced from sandy soils and ages in a combination of foudres and demi-muids. It shows more structure than the regular cuvée, supporting the ripe raspberry and blackberry fruit with bright acids and velvety tannins. Full-bodied and rich, it's long, picking up hints of licorice on the finish.

There’s a very rich and deeply detailed edge here and the 20% whole clusters are certainly adding some interest and complexity at this early stage. The palate has a firmish and fresh feel with a wealth of detailed tannin and a supple, even and juicy core of dark ripe berries. Great balance and deceptive power. Drink or hold.