Luckily, the 2021 Choteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Reservee didn't show any of the signs of reduction that it did when I first tasted it from barrel last year. Although not cruising at the same level as the two surrounding vintages, the 2021 offers a distinctively elegant character marked by garrigue, red/black cherry and undertones of meat and herbs. Round tannins gently structure this medium-bodied Cuvee Reservee that wraps up with a savory finish.

Not yet bottled, the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Réservée has a classic perfume of Provençal garrigue, saddle leather, ground pepper, redcurrants, and tons of garrigue-like herbal nuances. This medium-bodied, elegant, nicely balanced Pegau has fine tannins and a juicy style not too dissimilar to the 2008, although I'm not sure it's going to match that vintage in overall quality. Time will tell, and this should end up being an outstanding wine from this estate.