2021 Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOC, Rhône, France

Clear, polished, slightly fleshy nose with very clear black and also a little red berry aromas, some pepper, cassis, a little dried herbs and a hint of bacon. Ripe, tart and juicy, again polished, youthful, juicy fruit, fine herbaceous and peppery spice, crumbly, very fine tannin and some bite, surprisingly cool for the high alcohol, some chocolate, pepper, a certain roastiness, meat juice and bacon in the background, again also dried herbs, juniper tones, still very young, very good, firm, juicy, finely spicy and high-alcohol finish, again with a certain bite.

Best to drink: 2026-2034+. What our ratings mean