Dark and balsamic nose with wet earth and licorice aromas plus a touch of bark. Rich and full-bodied, but focused and bright, this is an excellent special cuvée of Chateauneuf. Its long, tense, stony and licorice finish suggests this has excellent aging potential. Sustainable. Drink or hold.

The elegant 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée du Baron comes out on top compared to the 2020 I tasted last year. Licorice, strawberry, dried herbs and fleshy undertones are nicely delineated. Balanced by refreshing acidity and offering good concentration, the 2021 concludes with a juicy finale.