Château-Fortia Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvée du Baron 2022

This blockbuster packs a lot of power and stuffing, with a generous outpouring of black raspberry ganache, dark cherry and licorice. Savory acidity and an herbal thread weaves through while chalky tannins and notes of toasty apple wood, cast iron and smoked meat echo on the finish. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.

The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Du Baron, which has not been bottled yet, should be terrific. It offers classic Southern Rhône goodness in its red and black fruits as well as notes of leather, peppery herbs, and underbrush. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it brings solid purity of fruit, lots of tannins, and outstanding length. The blend is 45% each of Grenache and Syrah, with the balance Mourvedre.

Lots of savory and soy sauce character here. Good balance of richness and restrained structure on the full-bodied palate. Moderately dry, harmonious finish makes this good to drink now.

Matured in traditional foudres for 18 months, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Baron is 45% each Grenache and Syrah, rounded out by 10% Mourvèdre, from primarily stony vineyard parcels. It's ripe and black-fruited, bursting with notes of plum and black cherries on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied and supple, with ample concentration and a long, silky finish.