While there’s no Cuvee Mon Aieul or Reserve des Deux Freres in 2013, the 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape is outstanding and about as charming and drinkable as they get in the vintage. From miniscule yields of 22 hectoliters/hectare and deep ruby and mostly opaque in color, it gives up beautiful notes of black raspberries, toasted spice and Proven?al garrigue. Medium-bodied, nicely concentrated and with sweet tannin (which are almost non-existent in the vintage), it’s a perfect Chateauneuf du Pape to enjoy anytime over the coming 5-7 years. The blend in 2013 is 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and the rest Cinsault, all of which was raised all in older wood.