Vincent Avril’s 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape has turned out even more beautifully than expected, wafting from the glass with aromas of lilac, menthol, crushed flowers and sweet red berries. Medium- to full-bodied, it’s structured and layered, with an unusually austere profile for Clos des Papes, yet it remains poised and textural, its fleshy core of fruit framed by ultra-refined tannins. The finish is ethereal, delicate and penetrating- a quietly confident wine that should evolve with grace over the coming decade and beyond. (YC)

A touch less Mourvèdre this year, but not enough to change the profile of the wine, which is fairly classic albeit pretty bombastic in 2022. Raspberry and black cherry, ripe and exuberant. Full but not massive, the alcohol is present, slightly warming the finish. Tannins are a little grainy, so I would give this time to settle before broaching. Succulent and juicy, with a touch of liquorice. Vincent Avril believes the wine could close down quite early on. So drink young, or (even better) wait until 2030. All destemmed, aged in old foudres. Drinking window: 2030-2042. (MW)

A silky, textural and harmonious red with notes of dark cherries, fresh blackberries, dried thyme, currants and some mild spices. It's medium-bodied with finely grained tannins. Elegant and graceful, silky and bright. Fresh center palate with plenty of vitality and a caressing texture. Precise and harmonious with a pure expression of fruit at the center and a vibrant, spicy finish. Drink or hold.