M. Chapoutier : Barbe Rac 2020

Texturally stunning, with equal parts richness and grace, this offers a cascade of fig paste and cassis liqueur flavors layered atop iron and burned leaf notes. Round, broad-shouldered and warm, with perfect tension to match. Stretches out with smoke, orange peel acidity and talc-fine tannins. Delicious. Drink now through 2035. 650 cases made, 50 cases imported.

Really quite closed on the nose so give this some time, but it has a fabulous palate: full of energy, such fresh tannins and lovely acidity. The alcohol is present, but it nourishes the wine rather than overheats it. A long, dramatic style of Châteauneuf: might teamed with drinkability. Aromatically it's giving little away at present, so you must wait, but this has huge potential. Very serious pure Grenache for the long haul.

A seductive 100% Grenache with cherries, mixed berries, licorice and sweet spices on the nose. Full-bodied with creamy tannins. Round and velvety, with a caressing touch of strawberries and raspberries at the core. It has volume and texture, with a succulent and precise long finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold.

Bold and powerful, Chapoutier's 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Barbe-Rac comes in at 15.5% alcohol. The 2020 Barbe-Rac showcases enticing aromas of raspberry liqueur, strawberry jam, very ripe red and black cherry, mint, licorice and cardamom. Full-bodied and expressive, it is wrapped in an intricate web of velvety tannins and finishes exceptionally long.

Opulent, lush, round, concentrated, and loaded with deep, dark, peppery red berries, kirsch, flowers, and herbs, with a long, supple, elegant finish to seal the deal. Drink from 2024-2040.