2022 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Half Bottle 375ml, Southern Rhone

A textured, layered, precise red, showcasing aromas of cherries, raspberries, warm herbs, bay leaves and baking spices. It’s medium- to full-bodied with silty, beautifully melted tannins. So integrated. Lively and focused, with plenty of energy and verve complementing the ripe red fruit and dried herbs. Intense stream of spices in the long, flavorful finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink: 2027+ 

97 points Kevin Davy, James Suckling Sep 2024 

Few estates define Châteauneuf-du-Pape quite like Château de Beaucastel. The Perrin family has cultivated this historic Southern Rhône property for generations, producing wines celebrated for their complexity, distinctive savoury character and remarkable ability to age. The 2022 is a particularly impressive release, combining the richness of a warm vintage with the balance and structure that have made Beaucastel one of France's most collectable reds.

Mourvèdre plays a leading role alongside Grenache, Syrah and the estate's other traditional varieties. Organically farmed vineyards, including parcels covered in the region's famous rounded stones, produce concentrated fruit with impressive depth. Despite the warmth of 2022, the wine retains freshness and fine tannic definition.

Deep ruby red with garnet highlights. Black cherry, ripe plum and blackberry mingle with lavender, liquorice, cracked pepper and black olive. The palate is powerful yet beautifully composed, with concentrated dark fruit, firm but polished tannins and a distinctive earthy character. Dried herbs, subtle spice and a hint of leather linger through the exceptionally long finish.

Try it with slow braised beef cheeks and star anise, Turkish lamb with smoked eggplant or roasted king oyster mushrooms with black garlic and lentils. A magnificent wine for a memorable dinner.

Cellaring: Drink 2028 to 2045+. Its concentration, structure and balance promise outstanding ageing potential.