2014 Chateauneuf du Pape

Shockingly good in the vintage, the 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape is as charming and gulpable as they come. Made from 52% Grenache, 28% Syrah and 20% Mourvèdre, partially destemmed and aged in foudre, old barrels and concrete tanks, its medium ruby color is followed by tons of sweet red fruits (cherries, strawberry), Provençal garrigue and spice. On the fuller side of medium-bodied, with a soft, expansive texture and sweet, it’s a beauty to drink over the coming 5-7 years.

(aged for 14 months in concrete vats and older oak barrels of varying size): Deep ruby. Ripe cherry and black raspberry on the perfumed nose, complicated by subtle floral and oak nuances. Fleshy and seamless on the palate, offering broad cherry and dark berry flavors along with hints of peppery spices and smoky minerals. Closes smooth, smoky and long, with good clarity and supple, slow-building tannins that add shape.

Tasted blind. Blackish crimson. Attractive floral fragrance on the nose. Relaxed, non-showy well-balanced palate. A good take on 2014 with some, but not aggressive, freshness. (JR)