Brilliant ruby. Heady aromas of ripe cherry, blueberry and pungent flowers, along with vanilla, woodsmoke and mineral nuances that gain strength as the wine opens up. Rich yet energetic as well, offering sappy, deeply concentrated red and blue fruit preserve, spicecake and cola flavors that are given spine by a core of juicy acidity. The floral and mineral notes linger impressively on a very long, seamless finish that shows excellent clarity and a touch of exotic spices.

Pulsating flavors of blueberry and black-cherry preserves drench the palate of this full-throttle Grenache-based powerhouse. It's matured 12 months in oak (30% barriques), showing a dark, fleshy fruit profile on the palate. It's a hedonistic sip that's ready to drink now but should hold beautifully through 2030.

The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Privilege offers more purity and elegance. A blend of 50% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 12% Mourvèdre and the rest Cinsault, brought up in 30% new oak, its saturated purple color is followed by rocking notes of blackcurrants, chocolate, ground herbs, and pepper. It's a rich, meaty, concentrated wine that has polished tannins, good mid-palate density, and a big finish. Give it a few years.