2022 Domaine des Sénéchaux Châteauneuf-du-Pape

I love the wines from this estate, which always shine for their incredible perfume and complexity. Exotic red and black fruits, lavender, basil, peppery garrigue, and sandalwood notes define the 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape, which is based on 58% Grenache, 24% Syrah, and 18% Mourvèdre that was brought up mostly in larger foudre but with a small part in used barrels. With medium to full-bodied richness, a silky, elegant mouthfeel, present tannins, and outstanding length, this beauty is well worth your time and money. Drink bottles over the coming 10-12 years.

When the Cazes family of Château Lynch-Bages took over this historic property in 2006, little changed in terms of winemaking philosophy or vineyard selection. The estate has long been famous for producing just two wines—one white and one red—and that focused tradition continues to this day. Veteran winemaker Bernard Tranchecoste, who was already overseeing the cellar prior to the Cazes family’s arrival, remains at the helm. The resources brought by the Cazes family have been directed primarily toward vineyard improvements, including thoughtful replanting and new parcels that are now coming beautifully into production. Surrounded by the Bois des Sénéchaux (the “Sheriff’s Woods”), the property itself dates back to the 14th century, grounding these refined, modern wines in deep historical roots. Aging is carried out in larger-format wood, not to impart overt oak character, but to add elegance and refinement to the wines. The 2022—an excellent vintage—shows beautiful notes of wild strawberry, redcurrant, Asian spicebox, and pipe tobacco. It is a beautifully structured wine that drinks effortlessly in its youth while possessing the depth and balance to age gracefully for a decade or more.