Another highlight this year, Charvin's 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape exhales a complex, floral bouquet of violet, rose petals, dark cherries, spices and menthol intertwined with delicate garrigue notes. Medium to full-bodied and fine-boned with a layered core of fruit, bright acids and velvety tannins, it finishes long and ethereal with a delicate tannic frame thanks to whole bunches. This blend of 80% Grenache, 7% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre and the rest of Vaccarèse and Counoise is one of my favorites this year.

The 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape scores with a redolent perfume of ripe strawberry, raspberry, licorice and rose petal. Ample freshness balances the 15.5% alcohol. Full-bodied, concentrated and framed by a firm tannic corset, the 2022 is a long-distance runner. Patience is advised.