Our first vintage with Durieu was 2016—a benchmark year in Châteauneuf, and the wine reflected that quality. It was an instant success, wowing both our team and our clients. What has impressed me most since then is the continuity. Every release since that first vintage has been stellar, and their commitment to elevating Lucile Avril shows in the fact that they even divested other Châteauneuf holdings to focus on making this cuvée truly brilliant. The 2022 is another triumph. A pristinely ripe vintage, it delivers deeply complex fruit—black cherry, currants, red licorice—layered with violet and savory spice. The structure is powerful yet inviting, with meltingly luxurious tannins that give the wine an almost ethereal weight. Stylish without excess, it has that rare balance that makes each sip call for another. This is exactly what I want in Châteauneuf, and few producers deliver it as consistently as Durieu. The 2022 Lucile Avril is a superstar of the category, once again reaching remarkable heights.

I find Domaine Durieu's 2022 "Lucile Avril" to be truly spectacular, even as someone who doesn't typically enjoy Rhone Valley wines. "Lucile Avril" is one of the most balanced, smooth wines I've ever had, medium to full bodied with notes of herbs, cherry, and raspberry on the palate. Velvety tannins and a long, clean finish really drive home this exceptional wine. If you're looking for an amazing Chateauneuf-du-Pape, look no further than the 2022 "Lucile Avril".

This subtle wine brings a mellow, smoky presence. Notes of charcoal, cherry and finishes with a delightful astringence. Superb!