Châteauneuf du Pape 'Chante le Merle' Bosquet des Papes 2016/17

Bosquet des Papes, Châteauneuf du Pape

A few years ago, this traditional 32ha estate had a new lease of life when son Nicolas Boiron took over from his father Maurice. Both men are built like rugby forwards and the wines have a tendency to be like them; therefore, it is advisable to keep them for a little while before drinking.

The old vine cuvée is the 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes and is a non-destemmed blend of 90% Grenache and 5% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre. Aged in foudre and demi-muids, it offers textbook notes of black raspberries, kirsch, garrigue, pepper and leafy herbs, as well as full-bodied richness, ripe, polished tannin and a great finish. I’ve found this cuvée to be a touch rustic in the past, but recent vintages show another level of purity, elegance and finesse.

Grapes: 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre