2019 Domaine de la Solitude Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve Secrète

Here's a giant Chateauneuf that miraculously manages to remain vibrant and uplifting in spite of the enormous concentration and giant tannin structure. Just beginning to really open up, but it already has breathtaking aromas of savory, camphor, pine cones and wild blackberries. The finish goes on for minutes. A cuvee of century old vines of grenache (60%) and syrah (40%) from vineyards on sandy soil. Aged for 18 months in barrel, then aged for another year in foudre. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

Sleek and inviting, with showy red plum, winey raspberry coulis and blackberry liberally layered with warm cedar and smoked vanilla bean. Boasts black pepper and crushed garrigue that bring freshness, succulent acidity and balance. This has great length and still needs time to unfurl its tightly coiled layers. Grenache and Syrah. Best from 2024 through 2035.