M. Chapoutier : Barbe Rac 2023

Prominent licorice, dried herbs, forest strawberry, black cherry and a whiff of crushed rocks introduce the complex 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Barbe-Rac. Full-bodied, concentrated and neatly structured by ripe tannins, the 2023 is an immediately alluring Barbe-Rac that’s full of so much life and energy that it almost feels weightless. This is really good stuff.

A promising nose: strawberry, blueberry and black cherry, with a fragrant lift. Only medium-bodied for a Châteauneuf, the extraction is light, resulting in a wine with transparent red fruits and florals on the palate. The tannins are light but present, gently tense, with the slightest bitter note that brings a certain structural freshness. No great concentration or power, but this has good freshness and balanced alcohol. Very fine, with no discernible aromatic oak influence. From old vines grown on galets roulés, 30% to 40% whole bunch.

Layers of soft, supple, cherries, peppery kirsch, herbs, and spices. The wine is balanced between its soft, ripe, round, lush fruits and its structured side, giving it, its ability to age, and develop. There is a lot to like to here. The wine is produced from 100% old, vine Grenache. Drink from 2027-2042.