The vines of the Châteauneuf estate average 45 years of age, and replanting of new vines takes place amidst the older vines in order to moderate the former's growth and productivity. All of the grapes at the estate are handpicked and then 90-95% de-stemmed before crushing, fermentation and aging. This is the first cuvee, which is typically 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre and spends 6-8 months in new oak before racking and then 6-8 more months in barrel. Look for this stylish wine to show robust flavors of dark cherry, crushed red berries and pepper with notes of chocolate and citrus peel on the nose, set in a ripe, integrated tannic structure and ending in a long, sweet finish.

60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 8% Mourvedre and 2% Cinsault, Counoise, Muscardin and Vaccarese. 100% - stemmed and fermented for 2-3 weeks in stainless steel tank. Matured half in stainless steel tank and half in barriques (50% new) for 12-15 months, before blending and a further 3 months maturation in tank. Limpid ruby-red. Mineral-tinged aromas of raspberry, cherry liqueur, garrigue and exotic spices show excellent clarity and take on a minerally nuance as the wine opens up. At once rich and lively in style, offering penetrating red berry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors and a touch of candied lavender. Shows superb definition and finishes smooth, spicy and impressively long, leaving behind a bright mineral note. Rating: 93-95 Points; Josh Raynolds; Vinous