The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac is 100% Grenache, but this parcel is located on the western edge of the appellation, in what Chapoutier describes as a hot, dry location—even in the context of the appellation. From vines planted in 1901-1902, this is a dense, plummy wine, oozing with concentrated fruit and even turning a bit fudge-like on the long, supple finish. I don't expect it to age quite as well as the Croix de Bois, but it's still a thrilling wine.

The 100% Grenache 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Barbe Rac sports a deep ruby color as well as blockbuster notes of black cherries, crème de cassis, graphite, crushed rock and Provençal spices. This full-bodied beauty has terrific mid-palate density, building, ripe tannin, and serious length, all while still showing the hallmark elegance and minerality of this cuvée. Give bottles 4-5 years in the cellar, and enjoy over the following decade or more. While I’ve always preferred the Barbe Rac cuvée in the past, the quality of the Croix de Bois cuvée continues to soar, and today I find these two wines – while very different in style – generally equal in terms of overall quality.