2021 Chateauneuf du Pape

75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault, from the Plateau de Mont Redon, Les Bédines, La Crau, Cabrières and Pignan. This may not be labelled Vieilles Vignes but the Grenache, Cinsault and Mourvèdre are apparently 60 to 80 years old! The Syrah a mere 40 years. 50% whole bunch. Aged for 10 months in one- and two-year-old barrels then 10 months in foudre. Cask sample. Transparent crimson. Rich, candy aroma. Very juicy, smooth and sweet. Hugely flattering and gluggable immediately. Pure pleasure and the alcohol is not apparent. Good lift and follow-through. (JR)