2023 Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine, Southern Rhone

Few families are as closely associated with the Rhône Valley as Chapoutier. With a winemaking history stretching back to 1808, Maison M. Chapoutier has become one of France's most respected producers, renowned for its commitment to biodynamic farming and vineyard expression. Under the leadership of Michel Chapoutier, the family has built an extraordinary portfolio spanning the Rhône's greatest appellations. La Bernardine is the house's flagship Châteauneuf du Pape, named after the vineyard parcels surrounding an historic chapel and crafted to capture the essence of this legendary region.

The 2023 vintage draws on fruit from vineyards scattered throughout Châteauneuf du Pape, planted on the appellation's famous galets roulés, large rounded stones that absorb heat during the day and release it through the cool evenings. Grenache forms the backbone of the blend, supported by Syrah and Mourvèdre, creating a wine that balances richness, power and aromatic complexity. The warm Mediterranean climate and diverse terroirs provide the foundation for a wine of depth and remarkable character.

Deep ruby red with purple highlights, the aromas are immediately inviting, revealing ripe blackberry, black cherry and plum alongside notes of lavender, rosemary and thyme. Layers of liquorice, cracked pepper and warm baking spices emerge with time in the glass. The palate is generous and beautifully textured, combining dark berry fruits with savoury garrigue flavours and hints of dark chocolate. Fine tannins provide structure without heaviness, while fresh acidity maintains balance and energy. The finish is long, silky and persistent, carrying notes of spice, herbs and ripe fruit.

A superb companion for slow roasted lamb shoulder, beef daube, duck confit, grilled eggplant with tomato and olive ragù or a rich mushroom casserole. While already delicious in its youth, the wine has the concentration and structure to evolve gracefully over the next ten to fifteen years, developing greater savoury complexity and depth.