This wine has good tension and energy, waiting to release notes of stewed ripe strawberries, Morello cherries, eucalyptus and a bouquet of violets and rose hips that becomes even more expressive in a wide, bowl-shaped glass. The wine is accessible now with a gentle decant or hold for another 1-3 years to fully enjoy its complex layers.

Brilliant ruby-red. Lively red and blue fruits, savory herbs and candied flowers on the spice- and mineral-accented nose. Sappy cherry, boysenberry and floral pastille flavors deepen and turn sweeter through the midpalate. Blends depth and energy with a steady hand and finishes long and smooth, with a repeating cherry note and harmonious tannins.

The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Begude Des Papes is outstanding. Based on 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 12% Mourvèdre, and the balance Cinsault, it's a medium to full-bodied, ripe, yet nicely balanced 2019 offering terrific purity of fruit, notes of peppery herbs, leather, and darker fruits, good mid-palate depth, and a great finish. It's rock-solid and has a decade of prime drinking ahead of it.