A deeper, richer and more concentrated wine, the 2013 Chateauneuf du Pape Le Chataigner is a blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Mourvèdre from the La Crau and Grand Pierre lieux-dits, and was raised all in accommodation of demi-muids, barrique and oak tanks. Hitting 14.5% natural alcohol and with just under 200 cases made, it offers lots of smoked dark fruits, chocolate, peppery herbs and licorice to go with a medium to full-bodied, beautifully concentrated, slightly modern style on the palate. While this is certainly not for the traditionalist, it has surprising density and texture. I like it now, but it will hold for 5-8 years.