Starting with a 2015 barrel sample, Versino’s 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape is a classic blend of 75% Grenache, 10% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, and the balance Counoise and Cinsault, all of which was aged in foudre. It’s healthy ruby color is followed by earthy, slightly funky notes of peppery herbs, dark fruits and garrigue, which improves with time in the glass. Better on the palate, it has plenty of fruit, a full, layered mid-palate and ample tannic grip on the finish. This is a classic, old-school beauty that will need short-term cellaring and have 15 years of overall longevity.