2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz

Coming from more pebbly soils and 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Quartz is more exuberant and Provençal, with a monster nose of red and blackberry fruits, peppery garrigue, game, candied orange, and loads of spring flower-like nuances. Slightly closed on the palate, it’s still medium to full-bodied, has solid spine of acidity, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Give bottles 2-3 years (which is rare for a 2018) and enjoy over the following decade or more. I don’t think it matches the 2001, 2007, 2009, or 2016, but it’s certainly a rock-solid vintage for this cuvee.

Detailed, intricate herbal shadings mark the nose of the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz, adding extra nuance to the ripe cherry and berry fruit and combining nicely with hints of warm stones and dried spices. Full-bodied and silky, it's elegant and complete, ending with a gentle wash of silky tannins and ample persistence on the finish. Not the most intense or tannic vintage, it's approachable now and should drink well for up to a decade.