Domaine de la Charbonnière Châteauneuf du Pape 2021

A pretty, delicate rendering, the 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape boasts scents of garrigue and delicate alpine strawberries. It's medium to full-bodied, taut and silky, with a tart edge of cranberry on the finish.

A dark, muscular and smoky version, with a well of red currant and wild raspberry flavors detailed with mesquite ash and floral high tones. Chalky graphite mineral notes line the full-bodied palate. Tightly wound, this needs time to unfurl. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2026 through 2035. 1,600 cases made.

The refined 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape exhibits a red-fruited profile together with spicy undertones and discrete licorice. Classic and round, it offers a medium-bodied palate that's neatly balanced by lifting acidity. Readers should note that in 2021, there is neither a Cuvée Spéciale Les Hautes Brusquières nor a Cuvée Vieilles Vignes due to hail damage. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

There are two 2021 Châteauneuf du Pape releases from this great estate. Starting with the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape, which is mostly Grenache, it has a medium-bodied, focused, juicy style as well as perfumed redcurrant and darker cherry fruit, classic notes of peppery herbs, lavender, and spice, fine tannins, and a good finish. It's a rock-solid success in this vintage and will drink nicely through 2031.