All Grenache, all whole cluster and from parcels in the lieux-dits of La Guigasse, Le Crau and Les Serres, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul has evolved beautifully since I tasted it last year, showing vibrant floral and tea-like notes, raspberry fruit and hints of licorice. It's full-bodied, rich and velvety, with overtones of spice cake on the long, crisp finish. Tasting it, I was surprised to find out what the alcohol level was, because it showed no obvious heat—a testament to how much else is going on here.

100% Grenache from galet stone covered soils on Les Serres, sandy soils on Les Bédines and clay soils on La Crau vineyards - Very dark red colour, all the way up, glistens with wellbeing. The bouquet is a curvy, suavely fruited affair, has ease and style delivered discreetly above its depth. The palate is mega juicy, a real basket of abundance, attacks on wavy red stone fruits with flecks of herbs such as rosemary, also laurel. It finishes with serious, lasting and refined length. This handles its power well thanks to the richness, and is a handsome wine, deserving a good haunch of venison or a rich beef dish. Bottled in 2018. Tasted in October 2017.

100% Grenache. Cask sample. Rich and sweet red fruit on the nose, going slightly confected on the palate. There's a savoury smoked meat note to rescue the finish, and very fine tannin to give firmness. Could use a bit more persistence. (RH)