2022 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Magnum 1.5L, 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 command the respect of Château de Beaucastel, the Perrin family's legendary property in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Renowned for its commitment to organic farming and its distinctive use of all thirteen traditional grape varieties, Beaucastel produces some of the Southern Rhône's most complex and ageworthy wines. The 2022 is a magnificent expression of the estate, combining the warmth of a generous vintage with remarkable freshness, structure and aromatic complexity.

The vineyards lie on the famous galets roulés, the large rounded stones that absorb warmth during the day and release it overnight. Mourvèdre plays an unusually important role in Beaucastel's blend, contributing structure, dark fruit and savoury complexity alongside Grenache, Syrah and the other traditional varieties. The warm 2022 season produced concentrated fruit, balanced by the estate's careful vineyard management and thoughtful winemaking.

Deep ruby red with garnet highlights. Black cherry, ripe plum and blackberry mingle with liquorice, lavender, cracked pepper and earthy spice. The palate is rich and beautifully structured, with concentrated dark fruit, fine tannins and a distinctive savoury character. Notes of dried herbs, black olive and subtle leather carry through a remarkably long finish.

Try it with slow cooked lamb and preserved lemon, Moroccan eggplant with chickpeas and harissa, or duck with a black cherry glaze. A wonderful wine for a memorable dinner.

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