The 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape shows well, delivering an intense aromatic profile of ripe strawberry, licorice, pressed violets and dried herbs. Orange blossom accentuates the floral dimension. Kept in check by fresh acidity, the full-bodied and concentrated 2022 carries spot-on balance and wraps up with a savory finish.

A blend of 40% Grenache Noir, 35% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre and 5% Cinsault, the 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Château la Nerthe reveals a somber, smoky bouquet of dark berries, dark cherries, licorice and violet. Medium-bodied, round and supple, it's frame by structured tannins and a dense, juicy mid-palate, concluding with a delicate, ethereal finish. Matured for 18 months in a combination of foudres, used barrels, new barrels and stainless steel, it's a classic.

49% Grenache Blanc, 33% Roussanne, 12% Clairette, 6% Bourboulenc. Whole-bunch-pressed and vinified in demi-muid (40%), new (10%) and used (10%) oak barrels and stainless-steel tanks (40%). Aged for six months in demi-muids (50%) new (20%) and used (20%) oak barrels and stainless-steel tanks (10%). Certified organic. Tasted blind. The nose is very oak-dominated at the moment. A very powerful palate with huge concentration, unctuous and weighty – stone fruits and toasty oak, which is well managed on the palate, add layers of complexity. Needs a few years to come together but, with such intensity, it surely will. (AC)