The 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvée Tradition gives the impression of dusty earth and finely ground spices on the nose, all coating a core of ripe cherries. It's medium to full-bodied, silky and concentrated, with nice grip and persistence on the finish, where it picks up hints of cocoa powder and ground cloves. It's turned out even better—more structured and complete—than I expected after last year's visit to the estate.