The giggly wine!

The average age of the vines is very high indeed here, with some of the numerous plots in their 15.6 hectares of Châteauneuf planted a century ago, and the average being about 60 years old. The principal Châteauneuf is a traditional blend of about 70% Grenache, plus, in descending order, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and a little Cinsaut, Clairette, Counoise and Vaccarese. Grapes are partially destemmed, vinified by variety, and aged in a mix of stainless steel, old foudres, and a few new barrels. Deep robe. Hugely attractive ripe black fruit aromas with a cigar-box note. This shows so well the attractive balance of red and black fruit that is the essence of good Châteauneuf, with a purée of black fruits enlivened by the juicy bite of red cherries. Vanilla and spice notes. There are good backing tannins, but this is svelte and smooth: as with the 2009 at the same stage this is already approachable and pleasurable to drink. Lovely, cassis-scented finish. Now-2018