From a massive co-op, the 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape features aromas of dark fruit, cola and bittersweet chocolate. It's a full-bodied effort, plush in texture, but lacking a bit of fruit and freshness, with an earthy finish. Tasted twice (blind), with consistent notes.

Laced with vanilla and cedar, the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape is an oaky, fruit-forward effort that's rather atypical for the region. Those woody notes dominate the nose and palate, relieved only by tart raspberries and odd, tropical notions. Medium-bodied, it lacks sufficient concentration to support the slightly coarse tannins evident on the palate and finish.