2015 Chateauneuf du Pape

Moving to the 2015s from bottle, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape checks in as a blend of 75% Grenache, 12% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and the balance a mix of varieties, that was partially destemmed and aged in a mix of foudre, demi-muids, and concrete tank. It's a classic wine from this estate and offers textbook peppery garrigue, olive, and games notes, ample currant and blackberry fruit, medium to full-bodied richness, sweet tannin, and a good finish. In short, it's an outstanding, classic Châteauneuf du Pape that will drink well for a decade or more. This estate is managed by the larger than life Nicolas Boiron and his wines span the gauntlet from very traditional and old-school (Chante le Merle) to polished and modern (La Folie). This common theme across all the releases is incredibly high-quality.

Another in a long line of textbook wines from this estate, the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée Tradition displays subtle peppery, cinnamon and cherry notes on the nose. It's velvety in texture, turning to silk on the long, spicy finish. This full-bodied wine is 75% Grenache from ten different lieux-dits, primarily on galets roulés.

Medium bodied, finesse styled, fresh and silky, with an elegant slant to its red fruits. Sweet, spicy, lush and polished, I really like the character going on here. The wine was blended from 75% Grenache, 12% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre, 1% Vaccarese and 1% Counoise and 1% Cinsault.