In Durieu's tank-aged 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape, a garnet hue presages a more classic style. A blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 10% other permitted varieties, it offers up gentle leather and ripe cherry notes. Old school without being rustic, it's full-bodied, supple, almost creamy, then long and lush on the finish, showing excellent balance and harmony.

The impressive 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre, 3% Cinsault and 2% Counoise, all aged in concrete. It shows lovely cherry-raspberry fruit aromas, ample weight and richness on the palate and a creamy texture. The tannins are supple, and the finish is long, picking up hints of cola and dried spices. A solid choice for drinking over the next decade.

Delicate dustings of dried earth and ground spices give Durieu's 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape some grip and complexity. This medium-bodied blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 10% other varieties is matured only in stainless steel and is probably best consumed on the young side.

The 2014 Chateauneuf du Pape, which is mostly Grenache with 10% Syrah and 5% Mourvèdre (there’s a splash of other varieties), comes from a mix of terroirs, was partially destemmed, and raised mostly in concrete tanks. Its deep ruby color is followed by outstanding notes of black cherries, roasted herbs and leather. It has tons of charm, medium plus bodied richness, fine tannin and a great finish. Drink bottles through 2024.

The 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape is the most forward, superficial and fruity in the lineup, with attractive notes of garrigue, Proven?al herbs, kirsch and currant styled fruit all emerging from the glass. Moderately concentrated with light tannin, it nevertheless is a joy to drink and has lots of charm. The wine is made from 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 5% Mourvédre, and the rest Cinsault and Counoise. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years.