A ripe, classically CdP profile, black cherry and plum wrapped in smoke and pepper, delivered on a full-bodied frame with a long, cohesive finish. The 60/40 Grenache-Syrah blend shows old-vine depth and the hallmark mineral imprint of galets roulés
Old-vine Grenache in a classic key: Mont-Thabor 2021 layers black-cherry and blackberry depth with cigar-box spice and a faint smoky line, then finishes long and tidy. It’s poised rather than showy—CdP clarity with a quiet streak of power.
The 2017 Le Lucere is a polished Brunello from San Filippo, showcasing an elegant side of Sangiovese. With high praise from critics and a cult-like following, this wine brings layered aromatics, refined tannins, and a long, savory finish. Though we came in slightly below the consensus, it’s undeniably well-crafted.
A bold blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah from California’s Sta. Rita Hills, the 2019 Second Street Cuvée leans into ripe black fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. With pronounced aromatics, firm tannins, and elevated alcohol, this wine shows off the region’s warmer tendencies while retaining structure for near-term cellaring.
A fresh, expressive Garnacha from Madrid’s Sierra de Gredos, the 2022 Granito Cadalso combines vibrant red fruit with smoky, herbal notes. Crafted by Comando G’s Daniel Landi and Fernando Garcia, it offers a glimpse into the region’s rugged beauty at a fantastic price. No decanting required—just pour and enjoy.
Kermit Lynch comes through again. The 2021 Domaine de Durban Kermit Lynch Vaucluse Rouge offers an excellent opportunity to explore the vibrant wines of Southern Rhône. Crafted by the Leydier family at Domaine de Durban, this red blend exemplifies the region’s potential for producing expressive, approachable, and terroir-driven wines at
The 2021 Trader Joe’s Jean XXII Châteauneuf-du-Pape delivers a solid Rhône Valley experience at an almost suspiciously affordable price. With a classic Grenache-Syrah blend and plenty of dark fruit, spice, and structure, it offers a well-balanced and enjoyable sip—though with some lingering questions about its exact origins.
Louis Bernard’s 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape brings together Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre in a balanced, medium-plus bodied red that showcases dark fruit, spice, and a touch of rustic charm. With pronounced flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and oak, it’s approachable now but built to develop through 2030.
At $73, the 2020 Piedlong delivers both quality and value, as evidenced by its high ratings: a 93 from the Cork and Journey Tasting Panel and 4.2 on Vivino. For collectors and casual enthusiasts alike, this wine is approachable now but promises further rewards with cellaring through 2030.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a renowned wine region in France’s southern Rhône Valley, known for its complex, full-bodied red wines, primarily made from Grenache grapes.
The 2020 Château de Saint Cosme Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a remarkable expression of the Rhône Valley’s finest traditions. Crafted with meticulous care by Louis Barruol, this wine is a harmonious blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Cinsault. With a rich, complex palate and a profound sense of place, it is a
Discover the 2020 Domaine l’Abbé Dîne Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a wine that embodies the elegance and depth of the Rhône Valley. Crafted by Nathalie Reynaud from century-old vines, this rich and complex wine showcases the unique terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.