Brotte Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hauts de Barville Rouge 2019

Deep, ruminating layers of black plum and cherry confiture are lifted by tangs of crushed salt and stone in this bright, fresh-fruited blend of Grenache and Syrah. It's mouthfilling and rich but maintains a thrilling zestiness, too. Fringed by fine-grained, lingering tannins, it's at peak now but should maintain vibrantly through 2027 at least.

Dark and winey in profile, with steeped plum and blackberry fruit flavors leading the way, while black tea and mineral accents fill in behind them. Tobacco and garrigue accents dot the finish for added range and length. Really solid. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2022 through 2035.

Brotte's 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hauts de Barville is a bit less floral than the Domaine Barville bottling but just as satisfying, with oodles of cherry fruit, ample weight on the palate and a supple, almost creamy texture. A blend of 70% Grenache and 15% each Mourvèdre and Syrah, aged in a variety of vessels, it finishes silky and long,

Complex nose of mulberries, baking spices, dried herbs, bitter chocolate and smoke. Full-bodied with well-integrated tannins. Dense, with a grainy texture and juicy, flavorful and spicy character.