The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Hesperides is an even split of Grenache and Mourvedre that was raised in stainless steel tank and demi-muid. Rocking notes of blackberries, dried strawberries, peppery herbs, and sandalwood all flow to a medium to full-bodied, pure, elegant, balanced Châteauneuf du Pape with tons to love. It's already complex and drinking nicely yet should evolve for 15 years or more.

The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Hespirides has a tight lead over the Secrets de Pignan. An equal blend of Grenache and Mourvèdre, it was aged eight months in a combination of demi-muids and stainless steel tanks. Aromas of very ripe black fruits usher in, followed by hints of menthol, spice box and earthy undertones. Full-bodied and structured, this juicy powerhouse offers excellent depth and wraps up with persistence. Only 4,000 bottles were produced.

Intensely spicy with notes of licorice and hot asphalt, this Chateauneuf is only moderately fleshy and has stunning, fine tannins that give it a wonderfully velvety texture, then a very long powerful finish with mineral freshness. A grenache-based blend from vines planted on a gentle, north-facing slope in 1966. Drink or hold.

Tasted a year ago, prior to bottling, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape les Hesperides—a 50-50 blend of Grenache and Mourvèdre from the lieu-dit of Les Bédines—boasts dark, almost meaty notes of mocha, black olive and plum on the nose. It's full-bodied, rich, concentrated and tannic and in need of a few years in the cellar.