Guigal Châteauneuf du Pape 2017

Matured two years in oak foudres, this full-bodied blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah balances piercing black cherry and cassis flavors against a firm structure of fine, penetrating tannins and bright acidity. Richly concentrated yet pristine in fruit, it finishes on a sultry, smoky streak of crushed stone and charred anise. Approachable in youth but likely to improve through 2030 and hold longer still. Anna Lee C. Iijima

The inaugural vintage of this wine, it has a very fresh, melon and sliced-pear nose with subtle, stony notes. The palate is smooth, sleek and fleshy with attractive peach flavors and a fresh,crisp feel to the gently nutty finish. Drink or hold.

More dark berry fruits, wild fennel, and peppery garrigue notes emerge from the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape, another ripe, seamless, sexy, yet elegant wine in the lineup.

The 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah and 5% other permitted varieties, all aged in foudres for three years. Boasting scents of dried spices, stone fruit and red raspberries, it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a rich, velvety feel and a dusting of tannins on the long finish.