The 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin is all Grenache, 40% whole cluster, aged in two-thirds foudre and one-third demi-muids and drawn exclusively from sandy sites. It showcases incredibly lush, silky fruit. Raspberries and cherries of incredible purity add hints of chocolate on the long finish but never seem heavy or warm.

The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvee Chaupin is also slightly lighter in color than normal, yet offers a beautiful bouquet of crushed flowers, kirsch, black raspberries, spice and pepper. Medium to full-bodied, elegant and seamless, it shines for its purity and balance. It’s worth noting the estate is playing around with more whole cluster inclusion, and this cuvée was 40% not destemmed.

Chapouin. 100% Grenache. Partial whole-bunch fermentation in concrete tanks. Aged for 12 months in foudres (70%) and demi-muids (30%). pH 3.64, TA 2.99 g/l. Tasted blind. Dark blueish crimson with a pale rim. Warm, biscuity, ripe fruit aromas. Quite a bit of alcohol on the end and some tense, grainy tannins. The alcohol is just a tad intrusive. (JR)