Chateau Simian’s 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 70% Grenache and 10% each of Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. It comes from both the northern and southern ends of the appellation, from the lieux-dits of Cabrières and Gallimardes, and spent 18 months in concrete tank. Exhibiting Provencal notes of dark fruits, truffle, currants and hints of chocolate, it’s medium-bodied, textured and admirably balanced, with still present tannin lending some cut on the finish. I like it now, but it will no doubt continue to drink nicely for 3-4 years, and then have a gradual decline after that. Solid stuff.

Warm, plummy nose. Very fine flavour. Lots of fruit, long, fine chewy tannins. Balanced and simply delicious.